Caladium bicolor aka Caladium

Caladium bicolor, or angel wings, belongs to the arum family. It grows from tubers and lives for more than one year. Its native range runs from Central America to Salta, Argentina. It comes from wet tropical regions and grows in shaded, fertile ground. Gardeners grow it for its leaves, rather than its flowers. It suits beds, shaded borders, pots, and indoor displays. In cold places, gardeners often grow it as a summer annual.

Plants form clumps about 1–2.5 feet [0.30–0.76 metres] tall. They can spread to 2.5 feet [0.76 metres]. Another account gives a height of 2.6 feet [0.80 metres]. Long, upright leaf stalks rise from the tuberous base. The leaves have an arrowhead shape and smooth, sometimes wavy edges. Green leaves carry patches of white, pink, or red. Their veins may show a different colour from the blade. Leaves can reach about 1.6 feet [0.50 metres] long.

Flowers are rare and often hide beneath the leaves. A pale green or yellow-green spathe wraps around the spadix. This flower structure adds little to the garden display. The fruit also has little value as an ornament. Summer is the main flowering season, though one source lists spring and fall too. The leaves provide the main show through the growing season. They die back in winter, which can limit the plant's value indoors.

Give plants moist, rich, acidic soil that drains well. They grow in partial shade and can tolerate deep shade. Bright shade or filtered light suits them well. Direct sun can burn the leaves. Plants need ample water while they grow and dislike dry soil. The listed hardiness range is USDA zones 9–10. In colder places, lift tubers after leaf dieback or the first frost. Store them dry at 45°F or above. Shelter the leaves from strong wind.

Serious pests and diseases are not major reported problems. Slugs and snails can chew holes in the leaves. Wind and hail can tear the thin foliage. Sap may irritate skin, and swallowing plant tissue can cause illness. Symptoms include mouth swelling, burning, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Pets and livestock may suffer fatal poisoning. One reference records fruit as food and describes traditional medicinal uses. These reports do not establish safe home use.