Caladium Care Guide

Caladium Care Guide

Caladiums are spectacular tropical plants prized for their large, paper-thin leaves in stunning combinations of white, pink, red, and green. They're grown for their foliage rather than flowers and make a dramatic statement indoors or in shaded gardens.

Light

Caladiums prefer bright indirect light. Too much direct sun bleaches and burns the delicate leaves; too little causes slow growth and dull colors. A spot with filtered light or gentle morning sun is ideal.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season — caladiums do not like to dry out. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy in fall.

Humidity

Caladiums love high humidity (60%+). Use a humidifier or pebble tray. Low humidity causes leaf edges to brown and curl.

Temperature

Caladiums are warm-weather plants — keep temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). They are very sensitive to cold and will go dormant or die back if temperatures drop below 60°F.

Soil & Potting

Use a rich, well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention. A blend of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss (or coco coir) works well.

Fertilizing

Feed every 2–4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Stop fertilizing when the plant begins to go dormant.

Dormancy

Caladiums naturally go dormant in fall and winter. As leaves die back, reduce watering and allow the tubers to rest in dry soil. Store in a warm location (above 60°F) and resume watering in spring to encourage new growth.

Common Issues

• Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Faded colors: Too much direct sun or insufficient light.
• Sudden leaf drop: Cold temperatures or drafts.

Propagation

Propagate by dividing tubers in spring before planting. Each division should have at least one eye (growth point).