The caladium is most commonly live for being theelephant ear plantfound in most garden . The leave of the caladium are broad , flat , and bet outstandingly like an elephant ’s capitulum . With roughly seven coinage , these plant can grow to be anywhere from 15 to 35 inches tall and with leaves as broad as 18 inches . The leaves come in green , blanched , pink , and red . Some species have both colour which give a unequaled colour and pattern .

Growing Requirements for Caladiums

Caladiums like quick surroundings and are typically grown indoors in cold climates . These plants do have a dormant time period but during the mature time of year they require dampish soil . They also do not wish the sun as they have a tendency to dry out quickly . Full to fond shade is preferred although there are now sun tolerant varieties available through private raiser . When planted right away from the genus Tuber , the caladium should be planted about one to two column inch deep . There is directivity to these Tuber and they should be planted with the knobby side facing up . If plant upside down , they will grow but will take longer to emerge from the grime .

Taking Care of Caladiums

Caladiums need to be observe damp throughout the total farm time of year . depend on the climate , they may need to be watered day by day . The plant can not be allowed to dry out and therefore needs to be soundly watered often . However , when put in for the winter they ask to be kept moderately ironical . Also a soluble plant food should be used every two to four hebdomad . The garden should be weeded as necessary to prevent overcrowding .

History and Uses of Caladiums

Ninety - eight percent of all tuber come in from Lake Placid , Florida . These fields of caladiums are a popular holidaymaker attraction and there are festival held in honor of the plant and the economical successfulness it brings to the local growers . Every yr , new varieties and the largest indoor and out-of-door plants are showcased .

Each and every part of the plant is venomous to humans and should not be ingested . symptom of ingested caladiums include illness and swelling of both the mouth and the throat . They are also known to stimulate skin pique .

Diseases and Pests

Normal and common insect have their affect on this plant life just as with any other garden plant . insect powder can ordinarily treat whatever problem may arise .

Fungal disease can be treated with common fungicide . If job do endure it may be necessary to root for up the crop and try again next season .

Additional Information on Caladiums

Additional information on caladiums can be found on the following websites :

detail on growing requirements for the caladium can be ascertain on the Iowa State Universitywebsite .

NC State Extension coversGrowing Caladium for the Home Landscape

how to grow caladiums

elephant ear plant with text overlay how to grow caladiums