Caladiums are the one of the most colourful foliage species in the plant word. I actually call them the "Ugly Duckling" of the Plant World, as juvenile they look totally different to their matured form - Strap, Lotus to Diamond Heads and more. The colour and pattern on some hybrids are truly spectacular and amazing. Some Plant Lovers do shy away from them as they go dormant over winter in the colder regions, and by Spring they start to pop their heads to reveal something extraordinary.

Key Features/ Requirements

The Larger the Corm the "Larger the Leaves!"
Full sun to part shade outdoors.
Indoors direct or bright indirect light.

Watering:

Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy, water when top of soil 1-2inches feels dry. Overwatering will cause the corm to rot. During winter cut back watering to once or twice a week.

Temperature and Humidity:

Temperature & Humidity - Prefers 21-29 degrees, prefers high humidity if kept indoors use a humidifier, keep out of cold drafts.

Soil, Fertilising & Pesticide:

Prefers well draining soil to avoid rotting the corm, enriched with organic matter.
Caladiums are heavy feeders, fertilise every 2-3 weeks with Powerfeed, specifically during the growing season (Spring).
Propagation is easy via separating the corms (tubers) in Spring, water lighting till new growth, then increase watering.
Caladiums depending on your climate will do dormant in winter, interesting some planted in the garden will not.
Caladiums do attract aphids, spider mites, snails and slugs use pesticides accordingly with Nem Oil or other.

Toxic:

Caladiums are toxic to pets and humans if ingested (calcium oxalate crystals).

Caladium 'Fire of Phoenix' I28

Caladium 'Fire of Phoenix' I28