Caladium or Christ's heart, care and cultivation at home. The division of large rhizomes

Caladium flowers are a plant from the genus of flowering plants of the Aroid family. The flower is also known by such unusual names as Elephant's Ear, Heart of Jesus and Angel Wings. Caladium flowers at home grow slowly, so they are relatively rare. But it is worth trying to grow this beauty on your window to the envy of your neighbors and to the delight of your household.

The progenitor of all these flowers is a plant native to South America (it gave its name to more than a thousand varieties of caladium). The genus Caladium itself includes only seven species that are common in Brazil, as well as in its neighboring regions of South America and Central America. The caladium flower does not grow at home in open areas of the forest and river banks. During the dry season they remain dormant.

Some edible caladium species are grown in South America for their starch-enriched rhizomes. In other countries, the plant is used as ornamental plant in garden design. In the CIS and Russia, the caladium flower is grown exclusively at home as a result of various mixtures and many varieties have appeared under conditions of artificial selection. They differ in the flower of the petals, the length of the stems and the shape of the leaves.

Caladium plant: photo and description

Wild caladium plants can be up to one meter long. Large leaves of arrow-shaped or heart-shaped form in length and width average 20 cm and have long petioles. Leaves in the form of a spear or belt have narrower, elongated leaves on short petioles. Belt-shaped leaves produce more leaves per tubers. The description of the caladium plant will not be complete without visual material. We offer you a photo of the caladium in various variations:

Caladium flowers do not have an amniotic flower bed and are collected on the cob. The fruit is a panicle with berries. Found in color various shades red, pink, green, yellow-green and white with colored veins and contrasting margins.

Types of Caladium with a photo

Common types of caludium are presented in a wide variety. Most often they are used to decorate residential and office space. Some may apply to landscape design for registration alpine slides, flower beds and rose gardens as a background culture unpretentious to growing conditions.

We offer you a description and photo of Caladium species:

Caladium bicolor has a bright red center and extensive green fields.

Caladium esculentum edible kind flower. The petioles reach a height of one meter, and the leaf plates are about 80 cm. The green flowers of the cob are divided, and the yellow one is swollen to a cylinder shape and does not bear flowers.

Caladium violaceum is much smaller in size. Yes, and the color of its leaves is different: green on top with a bluish coating, and below - red and lilac-green.

Caladium hybridum has a white leaf blade with pink veins covered with an emerald net.

There are other types of caladium, but, unfortunately, not much is known about them. And their belonging to this genus is often questioned by modern scientists.

Caladium care at home

Caring for a caladium flower at home consists in timely feeding and watering. He loves both moisture and warmth, so for the winter it must be dug up and stored in a room with a temperature of +13 +15 degrees. The caladium plant should be kept away from places with direct sunlight. Well, if it is partial shade or diffused light.

If you plant caladium too early in the spring, the cool soil can cause the tubers to rot before they even begin to grow. It is best to first place them in a container with slightly damp soil and store in warm room in bright light. A similar procedure should begin one month before transferring them to open ground. Thus, the flower will have time to acclimatize and will grow well.

To ensure sufficient care for the caladium at home, it is worth taking care in advance of selecting the appropriate type of soil. Also for good growth flower should take care of the drainage of the soil and the presence of a small layer of compost or pine bark. And of course, we should not forget about the obligatory recharge. mineral fertilizers(about one tablespoon per liter every month and a half). Not all types of caladium are drought tolerant, so be sure to water the flower during the planting process.

Diseases and pests

During the growth and life of the plant, you may encounter small problems(but in general the plant is not particularly problematic):

roots may rot: they may begin to decay during storage or during the growing season. A similar phenomenon is associated with the appearance of bacteria and fungal microorganisms. To prevent this phenomenon, we recommend that you choose relapse-free tubers for planting and monitor the humidity level and temperature in the room during storage (we remind you that the humidity should be at an average level, and the temperature should not exceed twenty degrees).

spots appear on the leaves: the appearance of the fungus anthracnose can contribute to the appearance of brown spots on the entire surface of the leaves. Here it is quite possible to do without the intervention of chemicals and simply remove diseased leaves.

leaf burning is the result of excessive foliar feeding, lack of water, or excess sunlight. The older the leaves, the more susceptible they are to this disease.

Caladium reproduction

To propagate the caladium, mature tubers and their babies are used. In autumn, when the flower begins to fade, dig up the tubers and place them in a room protected from cold and rain (this way you give them the opportunity to dry properly) for a week. Store the tubers in a net or bag.

In the spring, carefully separate the tubers with a knife to create more small buds (future seedlings), but be careful that at least one sprout (node) remains in each separated area.

It is worth remembering that this exotic specimen is known for its "obstinate disposition", so you need to explore all the intricacies of caring for caladium at home. It will also not be superfluous to consider the famous varieties of the species.

This tropical bush you can safely decorate a flower bed or lawn. In the shade of a tree with a not very dense crown, it will look presentable.

General characteristics

The first thing that catches the eye of housewives is the appearance of the flowerpot. They carefully examine its leaves, as well as inflorescences.

leaf shape

Depending on the variety, this perennial has a different leaf shape. The most famous are:

1. In the shape of a heart. Familiar to many under their middle name - "Christ's heart."
2. Extremely thin shape, almost triangular.
3. Like an arrowhead or a spear.
4. Large and wide, like the ears of an elephant.

They do not have a pronounced stem. The leaves grow straight from the root. In the natural environment, they reach 5 meters, and decorative specimens - only up to 30 cm.

war paint

Appreciate this variety of Aroid for an amazing combination of bright colors. Although green color very few, yet it is dominant. In this case, the leaves are both dark marsh and greenish-white. They often depict "compositions" from:

• patterns;
• vein;
• mosaic ornaments;
• grid pattern;
• abstract spots;
• gradation of shades (smooth transition from one to another).

A distinctive feature of some species is a contrasting multi-color border. In rare cases, the edge of the leaves may be slightly wavy. Among other things, caladium seduces with its extraordinary combination bright colors, such as:

• purple;
• pink;
• silver;
• crimson;
• yellow.

This is not a complete list of color variations. The only thing is that the leaves never go with a bluish tint.

The plant is poisonous. Contact with juice on the skin can cause an allergic reaction (rash, redness). Therefore, the flowerpot must be kept away from the kids.

inflorescences

They can be described in a nutshell: miniature and inconspicuous. Flowering resembles an ashy hue wrapped in a pale palanquin. It looks like he is in a cocoon. For lovers of the exotic, inflorescences will be associated with the wild tropics.

Collection of varieties

At home, there are up to 15 popular varieties of the Caladium flower. Each one is different appearance, tubers, as well as conditions of detention. Here are some of the famous varieties.

The soil should have a loose and coarse fibrous structure, but sufficiently nutritious. The acidity of the soil is neutral.

Schomburg

The shape of the leaves slightly resembles a heart. The plate is 15 cm long and 12 cm wide. Their base has an oval or elliptical shape.

Bicolor

The people know him as a two-color arum. The incomparable combination of two contrasting shades of red and green makes the triangular leaves the highlight of the greenhouse. At the same time, there are varieties with white pigmentation.

pink spots on dark background look sophisticated and romantic. For the bedroom, this will be an exceptional decor option.

Large leaves look elegant on thin stems. Their width is 10-19 cm, and their length is more than 30 cm. This decorative flower Caladium will fit perfectly into the empty corner of the living room.

Humboldt

As the name implies, the complementary color to dark green is a metallic shade of silver. The pattern is formed by shapeless spots of various sizes. The central and side veins are always made of green.

At the peak of growth, the leaves of this species are 8 cm long and 5 cm wide. They are ovoid with a built-up edge. Since the foliage is small, 10 to 25 units can fit in one pot.

These are the most famous and widespread varieties. In addition, rare, but at the same time more luxurious species were bred. Among them there is a caladium, some photos are given below:

1. Florida "Sweetheart", "Sunrise" and "Red Ruffles".
2. Caroline Wharton.
3. "Pink beauty".
4. Fanny Manson.
5. Candyland.
6. Scarlet Pimpernel.
7. Rosalia.

Variety "Florida" is distinguished by the oblong shape of the leaves. Scarlet veins - salient feature groups. Unique look Aroid family - Rosalia. With a glossy brown-red surface with dark edging, this flower looks elegant.

As already noted, these exotic varieties are very picky. Thus, it is important to learn some of the features of planting, as well as caring for caladium.

Secrets of care: from planting to hibernation

Home care of this kind must be carefully thought out and planned. It is always necessary to carefully monitor:

• soil condition;
• temperature;
• lighting;
• humidity.

When caring for him, it must be borne in mind that the birthplace of this plant is the Amazon rainforest. Such an understanding will help create worthy conditions for him.

The main thing to do when caring for at home (photos of all the subtleties are given below) is to protect it from cold and direct sunlight.

The pot should be placed on the windows in the western or eastern part of the house. After all, this variety prefers a shady habitat.

In order for a houseplant to grow wildly, it is important to constantly maintain the following parameters in the normal range:

1. Temperature. In summer, the thermometer should not fall below 21-25°C, and in winter - 16°C.
2. Humidity. We need to keep it as high as possible.
3. The soil. The earth must contain the following elements: perennial humus, leaf waste, sand.
4. Spraying with a spray gun. This procedure must be carried out so that the dew settles smoothly on the leaves. Therefore, you need to spray around or above it, then there will be no brown pigmentation on the leaves.
5. Watering. To do this, you need to use settled water and, preferably, that it be soft.
6. Fertilizer. Mineral top dressing Caladium needs it in spring and summer twice a month. During hibernation, it should be stopped.

The dormant season begins in August, so you should not worry if the leaves start to fall off. New shoots will appear in March. But in order for them to start growing, you need to periodically (1-2 times a month) moisten the tubers so that they do not wrinkle. As a result, by the spring they will be ready for transplanting.

The ideal way to maintain soil moisture is a pallet. Gravel, moss or expanded clay can be poured into it.

reproduction

It can be done in two ways: using tubers and seeds. Of course, in the latter case, this process will be longer. To do this, you need to take a container with a peat-sand substrate, and sow the seeds. The resulting mini plantation must be covered with a glass lid. If you water 2-3 times a week and ventilate, then in a month sprouts will sprout. By September, the tubers themselves are formed.

With an annual transplant, prophylaxis against late blight should be done. To do this, you can use a new generation of fungicides.

The most efficient method of reproduction is tubers. Their transplantation should be carried out at the end of winter or at the beginning of spring. In this case, it is necessary to observe all the subtleties of the procedure:

1. Carefully separate the tubers. Large specimens should be cut in two or into 4 pieces, depending on the number of buds.
2. Charcoal can be used as a cutting powder.
3. The soil should contain sand and peat.
4. They need to be transplanted into a larger pot than before.
5. It is important to place seedlings in a warm and well-lit place.
6. Watering should be carried out as the soil dries.

In winter, the flower may begin to rot. Damaged areas must be cut off by treating the surface with some kind of powder-type fungicide.

All this will allow exotic plant feel at home. However, it is important to remember that its main enemy is aphids. Having found this pest, it is important to thoroughly wash the leaves under running water. When they dry, they should be treated with insecticides.

With such care, this flower will delight its owners for many years. It will create coziness in the room, as well as great view in the living room.

Video about the development of caladium

Decorative caladium - pearl home garden. tropical plant at favorable conditions forms a spreading bush with beautiful bright leaves. Attracts with a unique pattern on the sheet plate and a variety of colors. It is considered a capricious culture and, before the creation of hybrid forms, was grown exclusively in botanical gardens.

Photo gallery

plant description

Caladium belongs to the Aroid family, lives in tropical and subtropical zones of South America, mainly in Brazil. For the first time this plant came to Europe in 1800 thanks to the French botanist Pierre Ventane.

Caladium literally translates from the dialect of the natives as "a plant that has edible roots." For the amazing beauty of the leaves, it is called "angel wings", "elephant ears" and "heart of Jesus".

Is grassy perennial plant. In its natural environment, it reaches 5 meters in height, and its arrow-shaped leaves during rain can replace an umbrella for local residents. The life cycle of the caladium is clearly divided into periods of dormancy and active growth. In March, young growth is formed, which begins to dry out at the end of summer.

Often, an inexperienced grower fails to bring him out of hibernation, and they refuse to grow him.

In some countries certain types caladium are used as vegetable crop, as the tubers contain a lot of starch. In indoor hybrid plants, the juice is poisonous - if it gets on the skin and mucous membranes, a burn is possible. Therefore, it should be located in places inaccessible to children and animals. All care procedures are recommended to be carried out with rubber gloves.

Coleus is similar in shape and color to the caladium leaf. For beauty and color scheme you can find a certain similarity with decorative begonia. His "elephant burdocks" also resemble a syngonium. However, the conditions of detention and the size of cultures are fundamentally different.

The basis of the plant is a tuber, it has a rough surface and a rounded shape. It grows about 7-12 cm in diameter. A fibrous rhizome is formed from it, on which buds are formed.

Like all representatives of the Aroids, the inflorescence looks like an ear surrounded by a veil and does not differ in beauty. Small white buds appear on the peduncle in early spring after the first leaves have formed. Flowering continues for several days, the aroma is absent.

Leaves are valuable for florists:

• size reaches 30 cm long and 15-17 wide;
• located on small cuttings;
• grow in the form of a rosette directly from the tuber;
• the shape of the leaf plate resembles a heart;
• on the surface are drawings of various shapes, colors and sizes.

The lifespan of greenery reaches 5-6 months, and in early autumn they wither and a long dormant period begins for the plant.

Signs and superstitions

“Paints are the smiles of nature,” said the popular 19th-century writer James Hunt. A person surrounds himself with those colors and colors that help to achieve harmony and peace of mind. Green leaves with a bright red caladium pattern inspire, give confidence in own forces. Houseplants- a symbol of life, they moisturize the air and saturate it with special energy and oxygen.

Caladium has no negative superstitions associated with it, and is not considered an energy vampire. The only danger is the toxicity of its juice.

Plants according to the Taoist teachings of Feng Shui must be placed strictly in southern parts rooms, ideally it will be in the kitchen or living room. At the same time, it is necessary to put the pots at a distance from the person.

For lovers of compositions in the form of bonsai, Caladium will not fit unambiguously, since its aesthetic qualities are lush bush. As well as biological properties(lack of stem) will not allow to create such a form.

Home care

During the growing season, the optimum temperature for the plant is 22-25°C. And during the rest period, the thermometer mark should not fall below 16 ° C. Caladium is able to grow in the shade, but in this case, the bright shade of the leaves will disappear. Intense diffused sunlight will allow the flower to show all the beauty of variegated foliage.

It is best for him to have window sills oriented to the north, northeast and northwest. In summer, it is allowed to take the pot outside, but it must be placed in partial shade, where there are no drafts.

A tropical guest needs to create a similar microclimate. Humidity for caladium should be at the level of 70%. This can be achieved by placing a pallet with wet expanded clay or moss under the pot.

You can not spray it - drops of water will lead to the appearance brown spots, you can spray moisture into the air near the flower.

The peculiarity of the plant is the need to prepare it for a dormant period and special care in winter:

Periodically, it is necessary to inspect the tubers for the presence of rot. In case of detection of affected areas, they must be cut off, and the cut should be treated with powder fungicides.

If the tubers are not dug up for the winter, then in the spring a complete replacement of the soil mixture is necessary.

The splendor of the bush can be increased if, before awakening, the largest apical bud is cut out - this way more leaves form in the caladium.

It is better to acquire a “sleeping” tuber at the end of winter, before it wakes up. It is advisable to purchase in specialized stores or greenhouses. The cost of a tuber depends on the variety and size (starting from 50 rubles apiece). A seedling can be purchased for 300 rubles, and a beautiful big bush will cost from 800 r. You need to pay attention to the leaves - they should be bright, juicy and shiny.

Tubers at least 5 cm in diameter must be cleaned of dry roots and carefully examined for decay. If an already planted plant was purchased, then it is transplanted for the next season. Transshipment is necessary if roots are visible from the drainage holes. The pot must be chosen 2 times larger in volume than the tubers.

Soil selection

The substrate for caladium needs to be light, with good oxygen access to the roots. fit ready soils for Dieffenbachia and Spathiphyllum. Optimal Level acidity - about 6 pH. You can make a soil mixture at home from the following components (in a ratio of 1: 1: 1: 0.5):

• peat;
• leaf land;
• humus;
• sand.

To prevent rot, the bottom of the pot must be drained 1/4 of the volume. Expanded clay can be used for this.

Treating the soil with a solution of potassium permanganate or copper sulfate will help get rid of pests before planting.

flower transplant

Caladium requires an annual transplant in March or early April. Tubers should be planted in 1 large or several small ones. The container is chosen so that about 4 cm remains from the roots to the wall of the pot. There should be room for growth between the bulbs. It is necessary to plant in this order:

1. Drainage.
2. substrate layer.
3. Tubers with eyes up.
4. Priming.

In hybrid caladiums, it is difficult to recognize the top of a "sleeping" tuber. You can determine it by putting the tuber on the calcined sand, without falling asleep from above. Spray the surface several times a day warm water. After a few days, the buds will swell.

And you can put the tuber on the ground and cover with a glass jar or film. The first shoots are formed in a few weeks. Then you can plant the plant in a container.

After the appearance of the first shoots, a little substrate should be added to the pot, thus deepening the tuber. The depth of planting affects the decorativeness of the plant. On average, it should be equal to the size of the bulb. A shallowly planted caladium forms many children during the growing season, but this is reflected in the size of the leaves and the number of shoots.

The planted tuber should be sprayed and kept at a temperature of at least 25 ° C. Caladium should be watered only after the first sprouts appear.

reproduction

Caladium grown from seeds often does not retain varietal characteristics. They are tied at a flowering plant without artificial pollination, but quickly lose their germination capacity, sowing for the next season is allowed. The procedure is carried out in this order:

The first shoots appear 15-20 days after planting. After the formation of the first 2 sheets, the seedlings must be dived and planted. Re-transplantation is needed in late spring. By autumn, small tubers are formed, from which a formed plant grows the next season.

The easiest way to propagate caladium tubers. This should be done in February-March. There are several ways to divide:

• the mother tuber must be divided into parts so that two buds are preserved on each part;
• children - separated and grown as a separate plant.

The instrument for separation must be sharp and sterile. The cut must be treated with charcoal so that there is no decay. For the germination of tubers, a soil mixture of sand and peat is suitable.

Fertilization

It is necessary to start feeding the caladium in June, after the shoots stop growing. The plant needs a balanced chemical fertilizers, which include equal parts should include phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen. TO organic fertilizers include manure, manure, compost, humus (contain nitrogen), and wood ash rich in potassium and calcium.

It is recommended to use universal mixtures for decorative foliage plants (such as Bona Forte, Agricola Aqua are suitable). It is necessary to dilute in accordance with the instructions, a lower concentration is allowed. Bring in nutrients it is necessary alternately 1 time per week throughout the growing season. Starting from August and until the next season, it is not required to feed the flower.

Excess nitrogen leads to a change in color - green will prevail over the red tint.

Watering

Tropical flower loves regular watering. It is recommended to carry it out small quantities avoiding stagnant water. The need for irrigation can be determined by the drying of the top layer of the earth. Abundant watering begins after the emergence of shoots and is reduced in August. During the period hibernation spraying is necessary so that the tubers do not dry out.

Water is needed soft, its temperature should be slightly higher than the environment.

Growing problems

Common diseases among caladiums are Fusarium and wet bacterial rot. They strike root system. You can save the flower with the help of fungicides and transplanting into new ground. Damaged roots must be removed, and the cuts should be sprinkled with charcoal.

Another disease to which tropical flower- phytophthora. You can diagnose it by yellow leaves. Fungicide treatment is also used for control.

Despite resistance to insect pests, with a disturbed care regimen, the plant is affected spider mite. It appears in dry air and is determined by the presence of cobwebs. There are also pests such as aphids and mealybugs. You can see them with the naked eye. Damaged leaves need to be cut and processed soapy water and insecticides.

Most common mistake flower growers - excessive moisture of the substrate in the first months after planting, as a result of which the roots rot. This can also be determined by white spots. And if the edges of the angel leaves dry, then you need to adjust the amount of fertilizer or move the pot to a darker place.

Leaf discoloration indicates a lack of light. Brown edges indicate a low room temperature. Brown, withering and curling leaves - it is necessary to increase the humidity of the air and protect it from drafts.

The best prevention of diseases and pests is the correct watering regime, the necessary illumination and storage of tubers in winter.

Types of Caladium with photos and names

The Caladium genus includes 15 main species, on the basis of which many varieties have been bred by breeders. They are different in size and color. Popular are:

1. Humboldt (caladium-humboldtii). It consists of a rosette of arrow-shaped leaves up to 10 cm long and about 5 cm wide. On a dark green surface, the leaves have silver spots in the center. The miniature cultivar Myriostigma has white flecks on the surface.
2. Schomburg (Caladium shomburgkii). It is distinguished by oval heart-shaped burdocks, which grow up to 15 cm in length and up to 10 in width. The leaves, depending on the cultivar, may be green (Venosum cultivar) or red (Erythraeum cultivar) with a silver or yellow veined pattern.
3. Bicolor (Caladium bicolor). The leaf plate reaches 30 cm in length. The Rosalie variety attracts with a bright green border on a red background. The Florida Cardinal hybrid has glossy crimson leaves with a bright green streak along the edge. White Christmas is unique with a silvery surface with dark green stripes along the veins and spots.

Caladium (Caladium) - a small (about 15 species) genus of the Aroid family (Araceae). It lives in the tropics of America, mainly in Brazil. The tubers of some species are edible (Caladium esculentum). In culture, hybrid caladiums (Caladium hort) are mainly grown, the basis for the breeding of which was the bicolor caladium (Caladium nicolor), Humboldt (Caladium humboldtii), Schomburg (Caladium schomburgkii) and some other species.

1. Wnite Queen:

   red flash

   Ireland Ice

   Florida Sweetheart

CALADIUM: LOVE HEAT AND COMFORT

This plant with large arrow-shaped leaves of bright, spotty, various colors - can rightfully claim the title of champion of home flora in beauty, diversity and unusualness. Effectiveness sheet plates adds a contrast network of veins.

Caladium is extremely popular in Western Europe and the USA. More than 1000 cultivars have been developed. In our country, the plant is also widely known, but it is rarely found in collections. This can be explained by the prevailing opinion about the difficulty of its content. Although caladium is not much more demanding in care than aroids - its "relatives". Yes, he has a long period of rest, but a suitable place for this can be found in any apartment without any problems. Let us consider in more detail what is necessary for the successful maintenance of caladium.

GETTING READY FOR LANDING

It is better to acquire not actively growing mature plant, and the "sleeping" tuber, optimally - at the end of winter, when the time comes for its awakening. It is good if a large tuber comes across, at least 5 cm in diameter. Carefully clean it from the remnants of dry roots and carefully examine it. If foci of decay are found, cut them out sharp knife, sprinkle the slices with charcoal powder.

It is advisable to treat both completely healthy and “treated” tubers with a fungicide, for example, Maxim, before planting to prevent rot.

TOP OR BOTTOM?

In hybrid caladiums - namely, they are usually found in culture - it can be difficult to recognize the top of the "sleeping" tuber. Faced with such a situation, we pour clean, dry, calcined sand into a dish of suitable size, put a tuber on it, without deepening it, and put it in a bright warm (+ 20-22 degrees) place. We do not water, but lightly sprinkle the tuber and sand with warm soft water 2-3 times a day. After a few days, the buds will swell, and you can start planting.

THE SECRET OF THE GREAT LEAF

During the awakening of the tuber, you can carry out a manipulation that can increase the splendor of the bush. It is based on the so-called apical dominance. In many plants, the upper bud receives the main nutrition, which inhibits the development of others. Therefore, if the largest apical bud is carefully cut from the caladium-ma tuber (be sure to sprinkle the cut with crushed charcoal), many more buds will awaken, a new leader will no longer appear, and the plant will develop significantly more leaves.

LANDING CALADIUM

We select a container for caladium with a diameter approximately twice as large as a tuber, that is, for a tuber d 5 cm, you will need a pot 10-12 cm wide. Since root rot- the main danger when keeping this plant, for effective drainage, we fill the flowerpot by a quarter with expanded clay. soil mixture light, breathable, but at the same time fertile is desirable. Approximate composition: humus and leafy soil, peat and sand (1:1:1:0.5).

In the first days after planting, watering is not required, since the tuber does not yet have roots. At this time, we keep the substrate in a slightly damp state, periodically spraying. And only when the roots appear and the leaves begin to grow, we begin to water, gradually increasing the rate. A fully formed caladium bush requires abundant and regular watering with always warm soft water.

IN THE STAGE of active vegetation for the formation of a large tuber, along with fertile soil weekly top dressing with full mineral fertilizer is necessary.

LIGHTING AND TEMPERATURE

The color of the leaves will be saturated, juicy and contrasting only in bright but diffused light. Direct sunlight, especially on a southern window, will burn the leaves. A good solution to the problem is to take the caladium pot for the summer to a place protected from the wind and bright sun: to the balcony, to the loggia, patio, gazebo.

With open placement, however, as with any other, it should be noted that the caladium is thermophilic and the temperature is below +20 degrees. uncomfortable for him, and below +15 degrees, can destroy the plant. At the same time, he also does not like too high (over +25 degrees) temperature.

AIR HUMIDITY

Along with the danger of root and tuber rot during the growing season, Caladium still needs high humidity. And since its delicate leaves do not tolerate spraying, it will have to be increased in other ways. The easiest solution is to place the plant pot on a wide tray of fine, wet gravel. By the way, the work of breeders does not stand still, and modern varieties are more and more adapted to room conditions.

A DESERVED REST

In August, we stop feeding the caladium, and with the onset of autumn, when the leaves begin to turn yellow, we reduce watering. Yellowed leaves should not be removed. Approximately by November, they will dry up, and the plant will have a dormant period. Temperature regime at this time only slightly lower than during the growing season. Optimum temperature- + 18-20 degrees, but not lower than + 15 degrees. So the pot with the tuber can be put away in the pantry or something else. appropriate place. Although it is more reasonable to still remove the tubers from the old substrate and store them covered with dry peat or sand.

WINTER CHALLENGES

However, the onset of a dormant period does not mean at all that tubers can be forgotten until spring. Peat is periodically sprayed, keeping it in a barely damp state, 1-2 times a month we inspect the tubers for the appearance of rot. If they dry out a lot, we put them in wet moss for 3-5 days, and then again in dry peat. In this state, the tubers are until February-March, then the life cycle is repeated. If the tubers have not been dug up, in the spring they must be transplanted into a fresh substrate.

HOW TO PRODUCE

Before planting, large tubers can be cut into several parts, each must have a kidney. Sprinkle slices with charcoal. In addition, caladium is propagated by daughter nodules, which are formed by the end of the growing season around the mother tuber.

PRODUCE QUICKLY the variety you like will help a shallow planting of an adult tuber, stimulating the formation of children. True, this will happen to the detriment of the splendor of the bush, the size of the leaves and the size of the main tuber.

FROM SEEDS

If you're more experimental, try growing caladium from seed, but be prepared for "splitting" varietal traits in seedlings. By the way, the seeds of a bloomed caladium are easily tied even without artificial pollination.

It is optimal to sow them freshly picked, but under conditions middle lane seeds have to be stored and sowing begins in February. Seeded in the lung leaf ground with the addition of 1/4 of the sand, lightly embedded in the soil. The substrate is moistened, the bowls are covered with a film and placed in a warm place with a temperature of -25-30 degrees. Humidity is maintained by regular spraying.

Shoots appear in 15-20 days. When 2-3 leaves appear, they dive. Seedlings are grown under standard conditions. In May-June they cross again. By autumn, small nodules are formed, from which fully formed plants will grow next year.

Caladium - planting and care at home: reviews, tips and tricks

Caladium - angel wings

Caladium is valued primarily for its unusual leaves, which are often called angel wings. They are like a picture in which you can find purple, pink, green, yellow colors. They resemble a large heart in shape, and when they first appear, they look like an arrow, which every day begins to unfold more and more - and, finally, you can fully see all the splendor of the leaf.

Blooms can be overlooked

The root system is represented by tubers resembling a turnip, about 10 cm in size. The main sprout is clearly visible in the center of the tuber, and dormant buds are on the sides.

The leaves can reach 45 cm long and 15 cm wide. The veins are always distinct and have a color different from the leaf itself. It can bloom at home, but this is not a particularly impressive sight, since the flower resembles an ear, which is surrounded by a veil, so this event often goes unnoticed.

Growing conditions

Caladium cannot be attributed to plants that can be forgotten for a while, this culture requires a lot of attention. What conditions must be created for angel wings?

Since the leaves of most caladiums are bright, they need bright sunlight, but it must be diffused, otherwise the plant may get severe sunburn. At home, give preference to northeast or northwest windows.

The temperature regime throughout the year should be moderate, without sharp fluctuations.

During active growth, water abundantly, but avoid too wet soil in the pot. This can cause tubers to rot, reduce watering in autumn to minimum scores, and in winter, water as the soil dries out in the ground.

The most difficult thing in care is to provide high humidity air, it should be at least 70%. To do this, it is necessary to carry out daily spraying, and it is best to use a spray gun with a fine spray, since large drops can lead to a discoloration of the leaves.

During the period of active growth, it is imperative to use top dressing with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. They are made once a week, but with the beginning of autumn they stop.

rest period

First of all, you need to remember that all Caladiums need a dormant period, which lasts approximately 6 months. By the time of its onset, all the leaves dry up and fall off. The plant at this time should be moved to a dark place and occasionally watered (when the soil in the pot dries out).

After sleeping, the caladium awakens in spring and pleases with its colorful leaves until autumn. In the spring, before the start of active growth, all tubers should be checked, and if there are damaged, dried ones, they are removed, and the living ones are planted in a fresh substrate. The planting depth is equal to the diameter of the tuber. Next, you need to thoroughly water and cover the culture pot with a dark, opaque bag. We remove the package when the first sprouts appear.

Caladium is the name of a genus of plants that grow in South America. It is believed that they got their name from the edible roots that the Indian tribes ate.

IN wild nature along the banks of tropical rivers, thickets of coladium form a dense undergrowth. The height of these plants can reach five meters, and the size of the leaves is fifty centimeters long and twenty centimeters wide. Its leaf shape is wide, with a pointed end, which is why many call it elephant's ear. The flower is inconspicuous, unisexual, surrounded by a whitish-yellow veil. The fruits are a panicle with berries.

There are about fifteen species of this plant. One of them, Caladium esculentum, has edible roots rich in starch. In Brazil, it is grown as an agricultural plant.

Most species grow only in the wild. But those who had decorative leaves have been cultivated. And as a result of selection, new varieties of caladium were bred, which are used as garden, greenhouse, indoor plants.

Decorative varieties of Caladium

The very first species that was cultivated back in 1773 is the two-color caladium. It grows well indoors. Currently, many varieties of this species are known. All varieties differ in leaf color.

For example, varieties such as Brandywine, Fannie Munsone and Scar Beauty have a bright red color and green edging. And Candiudum, Mixed Whites, June Bride - white and green. Speckled leaves in varieties such as Gingerland, Miss Muffet.

As a result of selection, varieties were bred that have a spear-shaped leaves with a long petiole. This variety has a leaf length of up to thirty centimeters.

Another common species is the Humboldt Caladium. It has smaller leaves, their length does not exceed ten centimeters. Its color is green with gray-white spots. The peculiarity of this caladium is that with the right additional lighting it does not shed its leaves during its dormant period.

In landscaping, a decorative look is often used - garden caladium. This is a large-leaved species, the size of the leaves reaches forty centimeters. It has the same variety of colors as the two-tone caladium. Requires special care, therefore, it is planted mainly in greenhouses.

It is classified as a plant with a pronounced dormant period. Leaves appear in late spring and disappear in early September. In winter, he has a dormant period, the flower loses its decorative properties.

Caladium Care

In nature, caladium studio grows in tropical forests. Latin America in humid, hot climates. Therefore, for decorative species special care is required.

When transporting a plant, even in a warm period, try to wrap it in polyethylene or paper to protect it from drafts.

To make the caladium flower delight you with its decorative foliage, use the following tips on how to care for at home:

• The air temperature in the room where caladium studio grows during the growing season should be between 24-26 ° C. And in winter time it should not fall below 15 ° C;
• During the period of growth and vegetation, the flower requires intense lighting. The place where the plant stands should be well lit, but try not to let the sun's rays fall directly on the leaves;
• It does not require intensive watering. Make sure the soil doesn't dry out, but it doesn't get too wet either. With strong moisture, the roots and leaves can rot. During dormancy, tubers are best stored in moist peat. If you do not have such an opportunity, periodically water the land in which the tuber is located. When the plant begins to wake up after winter, you can not water it too much. It is better to simply moisten the soil from above;

• The flower is especially demanding on air humidity. During the growing season, spray the leaves every day with warm, softened water. Choose the smallest sprayer for spraying. In no case do not wipe the leaves of a flower with a damp cloth. Such care will only hurt them. To make it easier to maintain humidity at home, place the flower pot in a tray with wet expanded clay or moss. At night, the pot with the plant can be closed with a plastic bag;
• From the end of March to the beginning of August, fertilize with complex fertilizer at intervals of fourteen days;
• The soil in which the flower grows should be fibrous, light and pass moisture well, be sure to place on the bottom of the container good drainage. You should also add bone meal, sand and peat;
• In February, the first growth buds begin to appear in the Caladium. At this point, it should be transplanted into a new pot, bud up. The depth of planting the tuber depends on what kind of leaves you want to enjoy. If you want to have large few leaves, plant the tuber should be deep, and if you want the bush to be thicker, plant the tuber shallow. In this case, it will produce additional shoots, but the leaves will be small. It is better to plant plants in small pots.

Caladium diseases

Spider mites, aphids, mealybugs infect the plant most often. Therefore, periodically inspect the leaves of the flower. If pests are found, treat it with chemicals.

The most widespread disease is all kinds of rot. Not only tubers die from them, but also stems and leaves. If rot appears on the tuber, cut it out and treat the tuber with a weak solution of potassium permanganate. Remove decaying stems and leaves promptly.

Caladium reproduction

Reproduction of a flower at home occurs by dividing the tuber or seeds.

In the first case, you can use child tubers or carry out reproduction by dividing the main tuber into parts in which at least one kidney should remain. Sections must be processed with ash and planted in separate containers.

In the second case, the plant is grown by planting seeds immediately after harvest, and by autumn the first tubers appear, which are stored and planted in permanent soil in February.

cultivation beautiful plants best obtained when using two-year-old tubers.

Caladium and homeopathy

All parts of the plant are poisonous, if ingested, the juice causes:

• burn;
• swelling of the larynx and mucous membranes;
• conjunctivitis, corneal burn.