A Complete Guide to Caring for Caladium lindenii

Caladium lindenii, also known as Angel’s Wings or Elephant Ear Caladium, is a stunning tropical plant known for its large, arrowhead-shaped leaves with prominent white veins This plant is native to Colombia and is a member of the Araceae family With proper care, Caladium lindenii can be an excellent addition to any indoor plant collection. This comprehensive guide will provide tips on water, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizer, and pest control to keep your Caladium lindenii thriving.

Providing the Right Growing Conditions

Light

Caladium lindenii does best in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east or west facing window where it will get 4-6 hours of gentle sunlight filtered through a sheer curtain. Direct southern exposure can scorch the leaves, so avoid hot afternoon sun. If light levels are too low, the leaves will lose their color intensity and plants will become leggy as they reach for light. Try supplementing with LED grow lights positioned 12-18 inches above the plant. Rotate the Caladium periodically for even growth since it grows towards light sources.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures for Caladium lindenii are between 70°F to 80°F. Growth will slow if temperatures dip below 65°F over winter. Use a portable space heater or grow tent to maintain optimal temperatures if your home gets very chilly. On the other end of the spectrum temperatures consistently above 80°F can cause slowed growth as well. Avoid placing this plant in hot, sunny windows.

Humidity

Caladium lindenii thrives when humidity levels are 50% or higher Use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or mist the leaves daily to increase moisture around the plant Just take care to avoid wetting the foliage when watering at soil level as this can encourage fungal diseases. Grouping plants together also creates a humid microclimate.

Water

Proper watering is key to keeping Caladium lindenii looking its best. Check soil moisture by putting your finger in the top 1-2 inches of soil and water when the top portion feels dry. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom. Allowing the soil to completely dry out can cause leaf drooping. On the other hand, soggy soil leads to root rot. Use room temperature filtered or distilled water as chlorinated tap water may damage the plant.

Soil

Use a well-draining indoor potting mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir to provide aeration and moisture retention. Caladium does not tolerate dry soil well. Consider mixing in some peat moss or compost to increase water holding capacity in the soil. Re-pot every 2 years in spring, moving the plant to a pot one size larger.

Caring for Your Caladium

• Fertilize Caladium lindenii weekly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Discontinue fertilizing over winter and dormancy.
• Prune off old or damaged leaves at the stem using sterilized scissors. Never cut the main stems or tubers.
• Watch for pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites which can infest the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays. Isolate affected plants.
• Brown leaf edges indicate low humidity. Increase moisture levels around the plant.
• Yellow leaves may mean too much water or insufficient fertilizer. Allow soil to partly dry before watering again and feed more regularly.
• Leggy growth with sparse leaves often stems from insufficient light. Move plant to a brighter location.
• Repot rootbound Caladiums in early spring, dividing the tubers using a sterile knife. Discard old mix and refresh the soil.

Caring For Dormant Caladiums

As fall approaches, Caladium lindenii will start going dormant. Gradually taper off watering as the leaves yellow and die back. Once all foliage is gone, discard dead leaves but leave tubers in pots. Store dormant plants in a cool 60°F spot and water just enough to prevent bulbs from shriveling.

In spring, repot bulbs in fresh soil and water to stimulate new growth. It may take a few weeks for plants to wake up from dormancy before you see sprouts. Once new leaves emerge, resume normal care. Site the revitalized plant in a bright location and fertilize every 2-4 weeks as growth takes off.

With its stunning variegated leaves, Caladium lindenii provides unique visual interest as a houseplant. Pay close attention to its preferences for warm, humid conditions and bright filtered light. Avoid overwatering during dormancy and repot tubers each spring. With the proper care, this tropical plant will thrive indoors for years!