{"product_id":"caladium-lotus-emerald-flame-green-angel-wings","title":"Caladium Lotus Emerald Flame | Green Angel Wings","description":"\u003ch2\u003eThe Lotus Form Unveiled\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaladium Lotus Emerald Flame brings something special to the Caladium world with its distinctive Lotus leaf form. Unlike the typical heart-shaped fancy leaves or elongated strap leaves, Lotus-type Caladiums develop beautifully rounded, gently cupped foliage that creates an entirely different silhouette. The Emerald Flame cultivar showcases this unique form in stunning shades of green, living up to its fiery name with leaves that seem to glow with inner light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Lotus designation refers to a specific leaf shape that has emerged through selective breeding, primarily from Asian hybridisation programs. These cultivars have gained devoted followings among collectors who appreciate that Caladiums offer far more diversity than the standard pink and white varieties found in garden centres. The Lotus form adds another dimension to this already varied genus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat makes Emerald Flame particularly striking is its emphasis on green tones rather than the more common red, pink, or white colouration. The leaves display rich emerald colouring with subtle variations and markings that create depth and visual interest. When light catches the slightly translucent foliage, the effect is genuinely flame-like, with colour appearing to dance across the leaf surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLight Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLotus Emerald Flame thrives in part shade to full shade, making it perfect for brightening those areas of the garden or home where other colourful plants struggle. Some gentle morning sun can enhance the green colouring, but avoid harsh afternoon sun which can scorch the delicate foliage and fade the distinctive markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndoors, position in bright indirect light near a window. The Lotus form develops best when given adequate light without direct sun exposure. East-facing windows work beautifully, as do positions near south or west-facing windows with filtered light through curtains or other plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWatering\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged during the active growing season. Caladiums are heavy drinkers when in active growth, particularly during warm weather, and may need watering every few days. Allow the top centimetre or two of soil to dry slightly between waterings, then water thoroughly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tuberous root system is susceptible to rot if left in soggy conditions, so good drainage is essential. Use pots with drainage holes and never let the plant sit in water-filled saucers. During the cooler months as the plant approaches dormancy, reduce watering significantly and allow the soil to dry more between waterings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHumidity and Temperature\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a tropical plant, Lotus Emerald Flame loves warmth and humidity. Ideal growing temperatures range from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius. These plants are extremely heat tolerant and actually thrive during hot, humid summer conditions that stress many other houseplants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCold is the enemy. Temperatures below 15 degrees will trigger dormancy, and extended exposure to cold can damage or kill the tuber. Keep away from cold draughts, air conditioning vents, and cold windows in winter. High humidity promotes the largest, most impressive leaves. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants together to maintain moisture levels around the foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePotting and Soil\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse rich, fertile, well-draining potting mix with plenty of organic matter. Caladiums are heavy feeders and benefit from nutrient-dense soil. A quality premium potting mix amended with compost or well-rotted organic matter works well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen planting tubers, position with the pointed \"eyes\" facing upward, covering with approximately 5 centimetres of soil. The roots form from the top of the tuber, so adequate soil coverage is important. Container growing is ideal as pot soil warms faster than garden beds, encouraging earlier and stronger growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed with Growth Technology Foliage Focus at half strength (1.5-2ml per litre) every one to two weeks during active growth. Caladiums respond well to regular fertilisation but too much can burn the leaves, particularly lighter-coloured portions. Stop feeding as the plant enters dormancy in autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eUnderstanding Dormancy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLotus Emerald Flame will naturally go dormant as temperatures drop and days shorten in autumn. The foliage will yellow and die back as the plant prepares to rest. This is completely normal behaviour, not plant death.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring dormancy, the tuber stores energy for the next growing season. You have two options: leave the tuber in its pot with the soil kept barely moist in a warm location, or dig up the tuber, allow it to dry, and store it in dry sphagnum moss or a mesh bag at temperatures above 15 degrees. Never refrigerate Caladium tubers. Resume watering in spring when temperatures consistently exceed 18 degrees and new growth will emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShade garden displays\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContainer plantings and mixed pots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIndoor tropical collections\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCovered patios and verandahs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarm, humid bathrooms with natural light\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCollectors seeking unusual leaf forms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreen foliage lovers wanting something unique\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderplanting beneath taller tropicals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat makes the Lotus form different from regular Caladiums?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLotus-type Caladiums have distinctively rounded, cupped leaves that differ from the traditional heart-shaped fancy leaves or elongated strap leaves. The Lotus form creates a unique silhouette and is the result of selective breeding, particularly from Asian hybridisation programs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMy plant is losing all its leaves in autumn. Is it dying?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo, this is completely normal. Caladiums naturally go dormant in cooler months. The tuber is resting underground, storing energy for next year's growth. Reduce watering, keep the tuber warm and dry, and wait for new growth in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy are my leaves smaller than expected?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeaf size is influenced by warmth, humidity, soil richness, and tuber size. Larger tubers produce bigger leaves. Ensure adequate warmth (above 21°C), high humidity, regular feeding, and consistent moisture for maximum leaf development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I keep my Caladium growing through winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn consistently warm indoor conditions with temperatures above 18 degrees, good humidity, and adequate light, you may be able to extend the growing season. However, most Caladiums benefit from a dormant rest period, and forcing continuous growth can weaken the tuber over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlease Keep in Mind\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaladium Lotus Emerald Flame is a bulb plant that will naturally go dormant in cooler conditions or during transit. Leaves yellowing and dying back is normal seasonal behaviour, not plant death. The tuber will regenerate new growth when conditions warm in spring. This variety requires warmth and humidity to thrive and will not tolerate cold temperatures. Contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of curious pets and children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you are from a quarantine restricted state and would like to purchase this plant, we recommend using Paradise Distributors concierge service. Make sure to contact them prior to purchasing: info@rareplants.net.au\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Growing Grounds Australia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51826398822613,"sku":"8975332","price":35.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0720\/5211\/3621\/files\/13F90BC1-B7D4-4B51-A0B5-CABD6715D631.jpg?v=1773370151","url":"https:\/\/growinggroundsaustralia.com\/products\/caladium-lotus-emerald-flame-green-angel-wings","provider":"Growing Grounds Australia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}