Caladium 'Dot's Delight' Care
Caladium (Caladium bicolor and cultivars)
Overview
• Striking foliage in reds, pinks, whites, and greens
• Grown primarily for their dramatic leaves
• Seasonal growth habit with dormancy period
• Perfect for brightening shaded corners or outdoor pots in summer
Caladiums are renowned for their flamboyant foliage—broad, heart-shaped leaves splashed with vibrant colors and veining. Though their beauty fades in winter dormancy, few plants rival their impact during the growing season. At BoDurtha’s, we consider them living art for your indoor collection or shaded patio.
Origins
Native to tropical South America, particularly Brazil and surrounding regions, Caladiums grow from tubers in warm, humid understories and emerge seasonally with the rains.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light is ideal.
- Too much direct sun can scorch their thin leaves
- Indoors: place near east or north-facing windows
- Outdoors: grow in dappled shade or morning sun only
- Watering
Watering Requirements
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth.
- Never let them dry out completely during the season
- Reduce watering drastically as foliage begins to yellow before dormancy
- Resume watering only once new growth begins after dormancy
Soil & Potting
Plant Caladium tubers in an Aroid Mix with good moisture retention but excellent drainage.
- Mix should contain coco coir or peat, perlite, and chunky organics
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent soggy roots
- Tubers can be planted shallowly, just beneath the surface
Fertilizer
Feed every 2–4 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.
- Do not fertilize during dormancy
- Excess nitrogen may lead to lush growth with weaker coloration
Recommended Growth Style: Freeform
Caladiums are grown for their foliage display rather than climbing habit.
- Best showcased in freeform pots or garden beds
- Works beautifully as a summer patio plant in shaded locations
- Indoors, place as a statement piece among aroids and ferns
Final Notes
Caladiums are the ultimate foliage showpiece, bringing texture and tropical vibrance wherever they’re placed. Accept their seasonal rhythm—lush beauty in spring and summer, quiet dormancy in winter—and they will return each year with greater strength. At BoDurtha’s, we celebrate their ephemeral elegance as part of a dynamic, evolving collection.