Caladium bicolor Candidum - Angel Wings

Caladium bicolor 'Candidum' is a very ancient variety of elephant ears, once very popular for its extraordinary foliage composed of large white leaves finely veined with dark green. A tuberous plant formerly highly appreciated for bringing an exotic touch to elegant interiors, Caladium is making a comeback in pots, as well as in ephemeral flower beds where its remarkably coloured large leaves still make a big impression. Native to tropical America, Caladiums are non-hardy tropical plants that grow as annuals in the garden, or like begonias, whose tubers are stored dry and cool in winter.

The genus Caladium belongs to the Araceae family and includes about 12 species native to Brazil and adjacent regions of Central and South America. In common parlance, they are called elephant ears, heart of Jesus, and angel wings because of the shape of their large leaves. In nature, these tuberous plants grow in clearings and on riverbanks. They are in vegetation during the rainy season but go dormant to escape the dry season. It should be noted that all parts of the plant are toxic to humans.

From spring onwards, Caladium 'Candidum' forms a cluster of leaves measuring about 60cm (24in) in all directions. The leaves, about 45cm (18in) long and 25cm (10in) wide, have a characteristic elongated and notched heart shape with a tapered tip. The veins are dark green, standing out beautifully against the perfectly white lamina. When it occurs, the flowering is quite inconspicuous. It takes the form of a yellowish spathe or cone surrounding a column called a spadix, characteristic of plants in the arum family. In early autumn, watering should be reduced. The foliage dries up, a sign that the plant is going into dormancy. This is the time to dig up the tubers, which will spend the winter in barely moist turf, in the shade, in a cool room maintained at 16 or 18°C (60.8 or 64.4°F).

Caladium 'Candidum' will bring an elegant and exotic touch to semi-shade flower beds throughout the summer, and its particularly bright foliage will enhance all neighbouring plants. For example, place it at the base of hydrangeas, Japanese azaleas, or dwarf rhododendrons, or create a beautiful scene with Impatiens, hostas, and lobelias that appreciate the same woodland ambience.