Name: Caladium bicolor ‘Medal’
Etymology:
The genus name Caladium is derived from the Malay word “keladi,” which refers to various tuberous plants. The specific epithet bicolor means “two-colored” and refers to the contrasting coloration of the leaves. The meaning of the cultivar name ‘Medal’ is not documented.
First description:
‘Medal’ is a cultivated form and has no separate botanical first description. The species Caladium bicolor was described in 1800 by William Aiton and later placed in the genus Caladium by Étienne Pierre Ventenat.
Origin / Distribution:
Cultivated form. The species Caladium bicolor is native to tropical America and is widespread in the moist regions of Central and South America. No natural origin is documented for the specific cultivar ‘Medal’.
Location / Habitat:
The cultivated form does not occur as a natural population. Caladiums grow in warm, moist habitats and prefer bright, filtered light as well as a consistently moist but well-drained root zone.
Description & Notes:
A loose, humus-rich substrate with good drainage is suitable for cultivation. During the growing season, the plant requires warmth, regular moisture, and a bright location without intense direct midday sun. After the leaves have unfurled, a dormant period begins, during which the tuber should be kept significantly drier.