Caladium

Description

The caladium is a tropical ornamental plant known for its striking, colorful foliage. It belongs to the Araceae family and is native to South and Central America, especially Brazil.

Description:

• Leaves: Caladiums have large, heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped leaves in vivid combinations of pink, red, white, green, and cream. The foliage is often variegated with contrasting veins or speckles, making it highly decorative.

• Growth Habit: Grows from a tuber and typically reaches 1 to 2.5 feet tall.

• Flowers: Produces small, spathe-and-spadix flowers (similar to peace lilies), but these are usually overshadowed by the showy leaves and often removed to focus the plant’s energy on foliage.

Light & Care:

• Prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade—too much sun can scorch the leaves.

• Needs warm temperatures and high humidity.

• Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Goes dormant in cooler months—leaves may die back, but the tuber can be stored and replanted.

Caladiums are popular in shade gardens, containers, and as indoor accents thanks to their dramatic leaf patterns.