How to Grow and Care for Angel Wings Plant
Succeed with the Angel Wings plant by understanding its particular needs, from its active growing season to its essential period of natural rest.
The Angel Wings plant, known botanically as Caladium, is a tropical plant recognized for its remarkable foliage. Its large, heart-shaped or lance-shaped leaves come in a vibrant array of colors, including combinations of red, pink, white, and green. These patterns make it a popular choice for homes and shaded garden areas. This tuberous perennial requires specific attention to its environment to flourish.
Essential Angel Wings Plant Care
Light
These plants flourish in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal indoor location is near an east-facing or north-facing window, which provides gentle morning sun without the harsh intensity of the afternoon. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the plant’s delicate, paper-thin leaves, causing brown spots or faded colors. If grown outdoors, they perform best in partial or full shade.
Water
Angel Wings plants require consistently moist soil, but it is important to avoid waterlogging. A reliable method for determining when to water is to check the top inch of the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to provide moisture. Water the plant thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, and empty any excess water from the saucer. This practice helps to prevent root rot, a common issue that arises from overly saturated soil.
Soil
A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is recommended for Angel Wings. This type of medium retains adequate moisture without becoming overly soggy, which is important for preventing tuber rot. The soil should be rich and slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.2, to support nutrient uptake. Good drainage is paramount, whether the plant is in a container or a garden bed.
Temperature and Humidity
As natives of tropical regions, Angel Wings thrive in warm and humid conditions. They prefer an ambient temperature between 18°C and 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It is beneficial to protect them from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant. To increase humidity for an indoor plant, you can mist the leaves, use a humidifier, or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season of spring and summer, regular feeding supports the development of lush, vibrant leaves. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, should be applied every two to four weeks. Always water the plant before fertilizing, as applying fertilizer to dry soil can damage the roots. Feeding should be suspended during the fall and winter when the plant enters its dormancy period.
Managing the Dormancy Period
The Angel Wings plant undergoes a natural dormancy period, beginning in the fall as daylight hours shorten. This resting phase is a normal part of the plant’s life cycle and should not be mistaken for it dying. You will notice the leaves starting to yellow and die back, which is the signal that dormancy has begun. This process allows the plant to conserve energy in its tubers for the next growing season.
As the foliage begins to decline, gradually reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Allow the leaves to die back completely on their own. Once the foliage is gone, the tubers can be stored in their pot in a cool, dark, and dry location where temperatures remain above 15°C (60°F). In the spring, resume watering to encourage the plant to emerge from its rest.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Brown, crispy leaf edges are often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering. To remedy this, increase the ambient humidity or ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot, or it could be the natural start of the plant’s dormant period.
A drooping plant is frequently a sign that it is thirsty. However, it can also be a symptom of root rot from excessive moisture, so it is important to check the soil before watering again. Pests such as spider mites or aphids can sometimes infest the plant and can be managed with insecticidal soap if caught early.
Is the Angel Wings Plant Toxic?
All parts of the Angel Wings plant are toxic to both humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are sharp, needle-like structures that cause irritation upon contact. If any part of the plant is chewed or swallowed, these crystals can cause pain, swelling of the mouth and tongue, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. For safety, it is recommended to place the plant out of reach of children and any curious pets.