How to grow caladium
Overview
Caladium is a tropical bulb grown for its stunning, heart-shaped foliage in shades of pink, red, white, and green. It provides a dramatic seasonal display in warm, shaded garden beds and containers. The key to success is keeping the tubers dry and dormant over winter in cooler climates.
Varieties
- Caladium bicolor 'Pink Beauty' — A popular Australian variety with pink and green leaves, ideal for shaded borders.
- Caladium bicolor 'White Christmas' — Striking white leaves with green veins, a favourite for brightening dark corners.
- Caladium bicolor 'Red Flash' — Deep red leaves with green edges, very showy and heat-tolerant in subtropical gardens.
Soil Preparation
Caladium prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Amend with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve moisture retention and fertility. Avoid heavy clay soils that stay wet, as they promote tuber rot.
Growing Guide
Plant caladium tubers 5–7 cm deep with the knobby side (eyes) facing up, in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Space tubers 25–30 cm apart for a full display. Start tubers indoors in early spring in temperate zones, or plant directly after frost risk passes. Water sparingly until shoots emerge, then increase to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In cooler areas, lift tubers before winter and store in dry peat or sawdust.
Care
Feed caladium with a balanced liquid fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) every 3–4 weeks during active growth. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to keep plants tidy and reduce disease risk. In cooler areas, lift tubers after foliage dies back and store dry in a frost-free place over winter.
Companion Planting
Caladium pairs beautifully with begonias, ferns, and impatiens in shaded beds. Avoid planting near plants that require full sun or dry conditions, such as lavender or succulents, as they will compete poorly.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids and spider mites can attack caladium in dry conditions; hose off or use insecticidal soap. Tuber rot is common in wet, cold soil—ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Slugs and snails may damage young shoots; use iron-based pellets or beer traps.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or cold damage—reduce water and protect from frost. Brown leaf edges: low humidity or sunburn—move to more shade and increase humidity. Stunted growth: tuber rot from wet soil—check drainage and lift affected tubers. Leggy stems: too much shade—move to brighter indirect light. No leaf colour: poor nutrition—feed with balanced fertiliser.