Heart of jesus - Caladium bicolor (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Toxic)

Heart of jesus

Also known as: Wild eddo, Elephant’s ear

The heart of jesus is a poisonous leafy plant. Its paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves lend the plant its common nickname, along with names like "angel wings" and "elephant ear." Though native to South America, its primary hub of cultivation is now around Lake Placid, Florida, where it has become a popular centerpiece for an annual festival.

Scientific classification

Species

Heart of jesus (Caladium bicolor)

Water plantains and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

15 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 61 cm

Spread

Green, White, Red, Yellow, Variegated, Gold

Leaf Color

10 cm to 13 cm

Flower Size

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Heart of jesus

Distribution of Heart of jesus

Distribution Map

The heart of jesus plant originated in Central and South America, growing in tropical rainforests. It is widely cultivated for planting in subtropical and tropical regions, including certain parts of the US, as an ornamental garden plant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, Banks of rivers

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Heart of jesus is a tuberous perennial commonly found in the gardens of warmer climates. It is prized for its large bi-color leaves with distinctive veining. Its preference for shaded areas makes it suitable for beds and borders. Heart of jesus is essential for tropically themed gardens. Plant with mono-color calidiums, daisies, or marigolds for color contrast.

Symbolism

Joy, pleasure, purity

Interesting Facts

Heart of jesus leaf colors are different because, according to legend, a long time ago, gods were keen on painting and creating flowers. Every god had his own special preferences. Gradually, the patterns painted on flowers became real, which is the origin of theheart of jesus.

Name Story

Heart of jesus: This plant has the most iconic leaves that they are arrow-shaped and dual-colored with different patterns based on the type of species. In Latin America, caladium is known as "Corazon de Jesus", meaning "Heart of Jesus". Slowly, this name has become its common name.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Heart of jesus, including the following common varieties :

Caladium bicolor 'Party Punch'Caladium bicolor 'Candyland'Heart of jesus 'White Christmas'Heart of jesus 'White Queen'Heart of jesus 'Red Flash'Caladium bicolor 'Fiesta'Caladium 'Rosebud'Caladium bicolor 'White Wonder'Heart of jesus 'Kathleen'Caladium bicolor 'Celebration'Caladium bicolor 'White Cap'Heart of jesus 'Gingerland'Heart of jesus 'June Bride'Caladium 'Kathleen'Caladium 'Red Flash'Heart of jesus 'Freida Hemple'Caladium bicolor 'Florida Sweetheart'Heart of jesus 'Carolyn Whorton'

Toxicity

Heart of jesus is toxic, causing severe pain, irritation, and swelling. Contact or ingestion results in painful rashes externally and severe mouth and digestive tract issues internally. Pets are at risk: cats and dogs may experience swelling, excessive drooling, swallowing difficulties, and vomiting upon chewing the leaves. Seek veterinarian help promptly for pets.

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Quickly Identify Heart of jesus

Large, arrow-shaped leaves with variegation in white, pink, red, and various shades of green.

Petioles are elongate, peltate, and erect, equal to or longer than the leaf.

Inconspicuous, greenish-white flowers on a spadix within a yellow-green tubular spathe.

Small, non-showy green berries maturing to pale tan, hidden behind prominent foliage.

Fruits form in clusters on a spadix, containing several tiny seeds, less than 0.5 inches in diameter.

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Care Guide for Heart of jesus

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Heart of jesus thrives in tropical rainforest conditions, favoring high humidity and consistently moist soil. It tolerates moderate drought but prefers weekly watering for optimal moisture. Typically grown indoors, maintaining ambient humidity is vital for its growth and vibrant foliage.

Fertilize: To promote vibrant growth in heart of jesus, use a high-nitrogen fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer, halting in fall and winter. Apply at half strength to prevent root burn, incorporating lightly into the soil near the root zone for best absorption.

Pruning: Heart of jesus features vibrant, heart-shaped leaves and thrives with spring pruning. Trim yellow or damaged leaves and spent flowers to enhance growth and vitality. Clean cuts near the base prevent disease, maintain shape, and encourage lush foliage. Regular inspection and pruning sustain its ornamental appeal.

Propagation: Heart of jesus propagates easily through tubers in Spring, with low difficulty. Successful propagation is shown by new foliage. To enhance outcomes, avoid overwatering and ensure well-draining soil.

Repotting: Heart of jesus thrives with vibrant, heart-shaped foliage. Repot annually in spring using a slightly larger container. Provide indirect light and consistent moisture post-repotting to support recovery. A well-draining pot is essential to prevent root rot, safeguarding heart of jesus's delicate roots.

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Images of Heart of jesus

Distribution of Heart of jesus

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Heart of jesus

Care Guide for Heart of jesus

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