Also known as Angel-Wings · Artist's Pallet · Bicolour Caladium
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Heart of Jesus (Caladium bicolor) is a stunning foliage plant prized for its vibrant, heart-shaped leaves in a dazzling array of colors and patterns.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light is ideal; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
75% intensity
Dappled shade or filtered light mimics its natural understory environment.
Keep consistently moist but not soggy during growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during dormancy.
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot. Reduce watering when the plant is dormant.
Rich, well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 21-29°C.
75% intensity
Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C. Optimal growth occurs in consistently warm environments.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
50% intensity
Do not fertilize during the dormant period. Provides essential nutrients for vibrant foliage.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, blistering and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting if ingested. Skin contact can cause irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Reduce watering significantly during the dormant period, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Remove any yellowing or dead leaves promptly to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent disease. Cut the leaf stalk at the base of the plant.
No significant pruning is usually required for Caladium bicolor; the goal is to remove spent foliage.
Caladium bicolor is typically propagated by division of tubers. In late winter or early spring, when repotting, gently separate the tubers, ensuring each piece has at least one eye or bud.
Plant the divisions in well-draining potting mix and keep them warm and moist to encourage new growth.
Repot your Caladium bicolor annually in early spring before new growth emerges. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
This process revitalizes the plant and provides fresh nutrients for the upcoming growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Heart Of Jesus (Caladium bicolor)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Caladium |
| Species | Caladium bicolor |
Similar in genus Caladium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
