Known for its tropical charm and brilliant foliage, Caladium brings instant drama to shaded gardens, patios, and indoor spaces. Its heart- or lance-shaped leaves come splashed in vivid hues of red, pink, white, and green, giving the plant an almost hand-painted look.
Belonging to the Aroid family, Caladium includes two main types—fancy-leaf and strap-leaf—together encompassing more than a thousand cultivars. Strap-leaf types have narrower, lance-shaped foliage and stay compact, while fancy-leaf varieties produce large, showy heart-shaped leaves that make stunning focal points in the summer garden.
Our Selection of Caladium
At Martin Garden Center, we rely on trusted vendors to supply premium Caladiums, which typically arrive by mid-April. These tropical showstoppers come in an array of cultivars, each with distinct color patterns and personalities. Here are a few of our customer favorites:
- ‘White Queen’: This variety features large, heart-shaped leaves with white centers and green edges, with bleeding scarlet-pink veins. It adds a touch of elegance to any space.
- ‘Red Flash’: This caladium variety showcases deep red leaves with green outer edges, creating a striking contrast. It brings a bold and dramatic element to your indoor or outdoor garden.
- ‘Miss Muffet‘: With its chartreuse green leaves with speckled hot pink spots exudes a soft and romantic charm. It adds a delicate touch to any setting.
- ‘Fannie Munson’: Known for its vibrant pink leaves, ‘Fannie Munson’ adds a pop of fresh and lively color to your surroundings. It thrives in partial shade.
- ‘Candidum’: White leaves with green edges, creating a classic and timeless look. It complements various decor styles and is an excellent choice for those seeking a more subtle Caladium variety.
Why Choose Caladium?
Few plants rival Caladium for pure visual impact. Their vibrant foliage transforms shady spaces into tropical sanctuaries, providing color where flowers often fade. Easy to grow in containers, borders, or even indoors, Caladiums deliver months of color with minimal care—making them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.
How to Grow and Care for Caladium
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to water your Caladium whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water.
- Temperature: Caladium prefers a warm and humid environment. Maintain a temperature range between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). Avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Humidity: Caladium plants thrive in high humidity conditions. Consider placing a humidifier near the plant or using a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity. Regular misting of the leaves also helps to create a humid microclimate.
- Light Requirements: While Caladium appreciates bright, indirect light, direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Place the plant in a location where it receives filtered or dappled sunlight, or keep it a few feet away from a north or east-facing window.
- Soil: Caladium prefers well-draining soil that retains moisture. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil in a ratio of 2:1:1 is ideal. This combination provides the necessary nutrients and aeration for healthy root growth.
- Fertilization: Feed your Caladium with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate dosage. Refrain from fertilizing during the dormant period.
- Pruning: Remove any yellow or withered leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Pruning also encourages new growth and allows better air circulation around the plant.
Size and Shape of Caladium
Most Caladiums grow 12–24 inches tall and wide, forming compact mounds ideal for pots, garden borders, or underplanting larger tropicals. Fancy-leaf varieties tend to be taller and more dramatic, while strap-leaf types stay lower and neater, perfect for edging or small containers. Leaf sizes vary from 4 to 12 inches long depending on cultivar and growing conditions.
Leaves and Flowers
The hallmark of Caladium is undoubtedly its foliage, which steals the show with its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The leaves are often multi-colored, boasting combinations of red, pink, white, green, and various shades in between. The coloration may appear as solid blocks, speckles, or intricate veins, creating a kaleidoscope of patterns.
The plant also produces small, delicate flowers. The flowers emerge from a central stalk, the spadix, surrounded by a modified leaf called the spathe. The spathes are typically white or greenish-white and may be tinged with shades of pink or red. Caladium plants are primarily grown for their foliage, and the flowers are often considered secondary. The real allure lies in the mesmerizing array of leaf colors and patterns, making Caladium an excellent choice for those seeking a visually striking and unique addition to their indoor or outdoor garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Caladium Perennials or Annuals?
While Caladiums are grown from bulbs, they are grown as annuals in regions with climates that experience freezing. In the Upstate, we enjoy caladiums as annuals.
Are Caladiums Deer Resistant?
Caladiums are not considered to be deer-resistant plants. The lush and attractive foliage of caladiums is appealing to deer, and these animals may browse on the leaves, causing damage to the plants. Gardeners may need to take precautions, such as using deer repellents or installing fencing, to protect their caladiums from potential grazing damage by deer.
Are Caladiums Poisonous to Cats or Dogs?
Yes, caladiums are considered toxic to cats and dogs. The plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and discomfort if ingested by pets. Symptoms of caladium poisoning in animals may include drooling, swelling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and oral irritation. If ingested, seek veterinary attention promptly.
How Long For Caladium Bulbs To Sprout?
The time it takes for caladium bulbs to sprout can vary depending on factors such as temperature, soil moisture, and bulb size. Caladium bulbs typically sprout within 4 to 6 weeks after planting, but it’s not uncommon for them to take longer, especially if conditions are not optimal. If you’re eager to see signs of growth, you can gently press on the soil surface around the bulbs to check for any emerging shoots. However, be patient, as caladiums can sometimes take a bit of time to break dormancy and begin growing. Once they sprout, continue caring for them by providing adequate water, light, and occasional fertilization to support healthy growth and vibrant foliage.