Caladium

Caladium is a stunning and exotic plant known for its vibrant foliage and ability to transform any space into a tropical paradise. At Martin Garden Center, our curated selection of premium Caladium varieties ensures that your garden becomes a haven of botanical beauty. The two common varieties, strap-leaf and fancy-leaf, include more than 1000 cultivars.The strap-leaf tend to have smaller lance shaped leaves and the plant tends to be more compact, while the fancy-leaf is the more common heart-shaped leaf.

Why Choose Caladium?

Caladiums are renowned for their striking foliage, offering various colors and patterns. Each variety brings a unique charm to your outdoor space, from vibrant reds to soothing greens. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, Caladiums are easy to grow and maintain, making them a perfect choice for any garden.

How to Grow and Care for Caladium

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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

Caladium plants typically grow to a height of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) and have a spread ranging from 1 to 2 feet as well. They are compact and well-suited for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. The plant features heart-shaped or lance-shaped (strap variety) leaves that can measure anywhere from 4 to 12 inches in length, depending on the variety.

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.

Our Selection of Caladium

At Martin Garden Center, we do not grow caladiums but are reliant upon our vendors to supply our selections. We start seeing caladiums arrive from our vendors in late April, and we are usually sold out by the end of May. We sell more than 1000 caladiums each year. Some caladiums can tolerate full sun but all caladiums can be planted in part to full shade. Caladium comes in a variety of cultivars, each offering its unique blend of colors and patterns. Each cultivar offers its unique combination of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style and preferences. Some of the varieties we have seen at Martin Garden Center include:

1. ‘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.
2. ‘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.
3. ‘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.
4. ‘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.
5. ‘Candidum’: ‘Candidum’ displays 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.

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.