Elephant's Ear Caladium

Caladiums are tropical plants with heart-shaped, 6 to 12 inch leaves. Within the genus Caladium, there are more than 1000 cultivars that offer foliage colors in red, salmon, rose, white, or green with many variegated combinations. Although it rarely flowers, is sometimes produces a spadix surrounded by a yellow-green spathe. Caladiums prefer a rich soil, constant moisture, and shade and are grown mostly for their interesting foliage display.

Caladiums will perform well in garden borders and containers. You should fertilize them once a month with 8-8-8 (2 lbs per 100 feet). Note that caladiums do not overwinter in North Carolina sustaining damage at temperatures below 45 °F, but you can dig up the tubers in the fall, store them in a dry location at 70 to 75 °F, and replant in the spring after the last chance of frost and the soil has warmed. You should plant them 8 to 12 inches apart and covered with at least an inch of soil. Most Caladium cultivars are adapted to full shade, but some selections tolerate partial sun or early morning sunlight. However, full sun generally reduces the intensity of the foliage color of most cultivars.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

This plant is toxic if eaten in large quantities. Leaves are fragile and can be damaged by wind or hail. Slugs and snails may chew holes in the foliage.