Fancy-Leaf Caladium Care: Spectacular Seasonal Color

Showstopping Foliage

Caladium hybrids boast paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves in dazzling patterns—white with green veins, rose pink, marbled red/pink/green/white. Hundreds of varieties; ‘White Queen’ is a favorite.

Growing Season (Spring–Fall)

• Light: Bright indirect. No direct sun (burns).
• Water: Constantly moist. Heavy drinkers.
• Humidity: High. Pebble tray + humidifier.
• Temp: Warm, 70–85°F.
• Fertilizer: Every 2 weeks, high-nitrogen at half strength.

Dormancy (Fall–Winter)

Leaves die back. Stop watering. Cut off withered foliage. Store pots at 65–70°F in darkness. Repot tubers in fresh mix in spring. Tubers last ~2 years.

Propagation

Division: break off small tubers when repotting; plant 1 inch deep in 4-inch pots.

Caladiums break the “year-round foliage” rule—but their summer show is worth the winter rest.