Contents
Description
The Caladium White Queen is a tropical plant known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with a white center and green edges. It is a hybrid of the Caladium bicolor and Caladium picturatum species and is a member of the Araceae family. This plant is native to Central and South America and is commonly grown for its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Caladium |
Appearance
The Caladium White Queen has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 40cm in length and 30cm in width. The leaves have a white center and green edges, which can sometimes have a pink tint. The plant can grow up to 60cm in height and has a bushy, clumping growth habit. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are not of ornamental value.
Care Guide
The Caladium White Queen requires regular watering, fertilization, and a well-draining soil to thrive. It prefers partial to full shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water once a week or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH should be between 5.5-6.5.
- Sunlight: The Caladium White Queen prefers partial to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Caladium White Queen is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Mites: These tiny insects can cause leaf discoloration and damage. Use a miticide to control infestations.
- Scale: These insects can cause leaf discoloration and damage. Use an insecticide to control infestations.
- Root rot: Overwatering and poor drainage can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is well-draining and allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering.
Habitat
The Caladium White Queen is native to Central and South America and is commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers warm, humid conditions and can be grown outdoors or indoors in pots.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Caladium White Queen tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, this plant prefers partial to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Caladium White Queen?
A: Water once a week or more frequently in hot, dry weather. Ensure the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the pH range for soil suitable for Caladium White Queen?
A: The pH range for soil suitable for Caladium White Queen is between 5.5-6.5.
Q: How tall can a Caladium White Queen grow?
A: A Caladium White Queen can grow up to 60cm in height.
Related Plants
- Caladium Bicolor
- Caladium Picturatum
- Caladium Pink Beauty
- Caladium Candidum
References
- “Caladium White Queen.” The Spruce, 15 May 2021, www.thespruce.com/caladium-white-queen-plant-profile-5073469.
- “Caladium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287916.
- “Caladium White Queen.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/caladium-white-queen-caladium-bicolor-x-caladium-picturatum/.
