Heart of Jesus
Caladium bicolor
Caladium Bicolor, widely known as Heart of Jesus or Elephant Ear, is a tuberous tropical plant native to South America. It is celebrated for its spectacular, paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves boasting high-contrast splashes of hot pink, white, and deep forest green. It serves as a striking seasonal accent plant.
Native Origin & Climate
Humid rainforest floors of Central and South America. Enjoys warm, humid coastal regions of Australia; enters winter dormancy in cooler areas.
Expert Pruning Tip
Remove any fading or yellowing leaves close to the tuber base using sterile scissors. During winter dormancy, cut back dead foliage completely and store tubers dry.
In-Situ Environment
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Botanical Blueprint
Localized Australian Care Taxonomy
Intermediate. Requires high warmth and humidity, and goes completely dormant (loses leaves) in the winter months.
Bright, indirect light. Direct hot sun will immediately scorch and bleach the delicate, paper-thin leaves. Low light reduces color intensity.
Moderate to High. Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged during its active spring/summer growing season. Stop watering in winter.
Rich, organic, well-aerated potting mix. A blend of 50% peat moss, 30% organic compost, and 20% perlite provides the ideal acidic drainage.
Requires warm temperatures (above 20°C) and high humidity (60%+). Protect from air conditioning drafts, heating vents, and cold winds.
Tuber division. Carefully divide mature tubers into sections with at least one growing eye during spring planting.
Bushy, delicate, and vibrant. Delicate, heart-shaped variegated leaves rising on slender stems directly from the soil.
Warm, humid bathrooms, protected shadehouses, sheltered patios, or tables near bright East-facing windows.
Indoor
Toxic:Toxic to pets and kids. Contains calcium oxalate crystals which cause severe mouth swelling, burning, and stomach distress if chewed.
Local Availability
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