Angel Wings

Basic Information

Common Name: Angel Wings

Scientific Name: Caladium bicolor

Native Habitat: South America

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Caladium bicolor, commonly known as Angel Wings, boasts a rich history intertwined with indigenous cultures and European exploration. Originating from the tropical rainforests of South America, primarily Brazil and the Amazon basin, Caladium’s vibrant foliage has captivated observers for centuries. While the exact details of its “discovery” are somewhat obscured by time, its presence was undoubtedly known to indigenous tribes long before the arrival of Europeans. These communities likely utilized Caladium for various purposes, perhaps medicinal or ornamental.

The scientific documentation and introduction of Caladium to the Western world can be attributed to European explorers and botanists during the colonial era. Specimens were collected and brought back to Europe, sparking interest among plant enthusiasts and horticulturists. The plant’s striking leaf patterns and colors, which range from vibrant reds and pinks to pure whites and shades of green, immediately distinguished it as a unique and desirable ornamental.

Cultivation of Caladium bicolor significantly increased throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Horticulturists focused on developing new cultivars with improved coloration, disease resistance, and overall vigor. The Florida-based breeder, Henry Nehrling, played a pivotal role in the early development and popularization of Caladiums in the United States. He dedicated years to hybridizing and selecting superior varieties, contributing greatly to the diverse range of Caladiums available today.

Another notable figure in Caladium cultivation is Joyce Dessert. The Dessert family owned a large plot of land near Lake Placid, Florida, and was the largest producer of Caladium bulbs in the world. She, along with her husband, founded the Heartland Caladium Company and created many new varieties.

Caladiums have experienced periods of intense popularity and have since evolved into a staple in tropical and subtropical gardens, as well as indoor plant collections globally. The plant’s adaptability to various growing conditions, coupled with its stunning visual appeal, ensures its continued presence in the horticultural world. Today, numerous cultivars exist, each displaying unique combinations of colors, patterns, and leaf shapes, a testament to the ongoing dedication of plant breeders to enhance this South American beauty. The plant remains a symbol of tropical elegance, with its vibrant leaves adding a touch of exotic charm to any space.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Caladium bicolor exhibits several key adaptations that enable it to thrive in its native tropical rainforest environment. Its large, broad leaves are designed to efficiently capture sunlight filtered through the dense canopy. The plant’s tuberous roots allow it to store water and nutrients, providing resilience during periods of drought or unfavorable conditions. Furthermore, Caladiums enter a dormant phase during the cooler months, shedding their leaves and conserving energy until warmer weather returns, showcasing an adaptation for survival in seasonally varying climates. As a houseplant, Caladium’s stunning leaf coloration attracts pollinators (in the wild), aiding in reproduction. The corms, or tuberous roots, allow Caladiums to efficiently propagate and spread.

Propagation Methods

Caladiums are commonly propagated through tuber division. This involves carefully separating the tubers into sections, ensuring that each section contains at least one “eye” or growth bud. These sections can then be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth emerges. Another method is seed propagation, although this is less common due to the variability in offspring characteristics and the relatively slow growth rate. Corm cuttings are yet another method that entails cutting the main tuber into smaller pieces and promoting them to grow into an individual plant.

Toxicology

Caladium bicolor contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. If ingested, these crystals can cause immediate and intense oral irritation, including burning sensations in the mouth and throat, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, swelling of the tongue and airways may occur, leading to breathing difficulties. Contact with the plant sap can also cause skin irritation. It is crucial to keep Caladiums out of reach of children and pets and to wear gloves when handling the plant. If ingestion or contact occurs, seek immediate medical or veterinary attention. Symptoms may also include vomiting and diarrhea.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Root rot
• Fungal leaf spots
• Pythium

Other:

• Leaf scorch – caused by direct sunlight
• Tuber rot – caused by overwatering and poor drainage
• Pale leaf color – caused by insufficient light or nutrient deficiency

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Certain Caladium cultivars, particularly those with unique or stable variegation patterns, can be considered relatively rare. Slow growth rates and challenges in propagation can also contribute to the scarcity of specific varieties. The demand for certain rare cultivars by collectors can significantly influence their availability and perceived rarity.

Value:

Several factors influence the market value of Caladiums. Size and maturity of the plant are important, with larger, well-established specimens typically commanding higher prices. The quality and stability of variegation, especially in highly sought-after cultivars, significantly impacts value. Current collector trends and the overall demand for a specific variety also play a crucial role in determining its worth.