Riverdene Garden Centre
Caladium (6")
Caladium (6")
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Caladium
Caladium bicolor (hybrids)
Care Difficulty
Easy. A colourful tropical foliage plant that thrives with warmth, moisture, and bright, indirect light.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light or partial shade. Most varieties perform best with filtered light. Avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Newer sun-tolerant varieties can handle more sunlight.
Water Requirements
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy during active growth. Water when the top inch of soil begins to dry. Reduce watering when the plant naturally enters dormancy.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity (50 to 70%). Higher humidity helps keep the foliage lush and vibrant.
Pet Safety
Not pet safe. Contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if chewed by cats, dogs, or people. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Growth Speed
Fast. Produces colourful new leaves quickly during the growing season.
Expected Mature Size
- Height: 12 to 24 inches
- Width: 12 to 24 inches
Pot Size
Repot in spring if needed using fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Where it Grows Best
Indoors in bright, indirect light or outdoors in containers and shaded garden beds during the summer. In Zone 3, Caladiums should be moved indoors before temperatures drop below 60°F (16°C).
Perfect for…
- Bright indoor spaces
- Shaded patios
- Colourful mixed planters
- Tropical gardens
- Beginner plant owners
- Adding vibrant foliage without relying on flowers
Common Mistakes
- Exposing the leaves to harsh afternoon sun.
- Overwatering, which can lead to tuber rot.
- Letting the soil dry out completely during active growth.
- Worrying when the plant goes dormant in fall or winter.
- Allowing the plant to become chilled by cold drafts or low temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Caladium leaves dying back?
Caladiums naturally go dormant as days become shorter or temperatures cool. This is a normal part of their life cycle.
Will my Caladium come back?
Yes. If the tuber remains healthy, new growth will emerge when warmth and longer days return. Reduce watering during dormancy and resume regular watering when new leaves appear.
Can I grow Caladium outdoors?
Yes. In Zone 3, Caladiums make excellent summer container plants or additions to shaded garden beds but must be brought indoors before frost.
How often should I fertilize it?
Feed every 2 to 4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. Stop fertilizing once the plant begins going dormant.
Why are the leaf edges turning brown?
Brown edges are often caused by low humidity, underwatering, or excessive direct sunlight. Increase humidity and maintain even soil moisture.
Can Caladiums flower?
Yes, but the small flowers are insignificant. The plant is grown almost exclusively for its spectacular colourful foliage.
Shipping Guarantee
Every Caladium is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Protective packaging helps keep the delicate foliage safe during transit so your plant arrives healthy and ready to enjoy.
Healthy Arrival Guarantee
We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Caladium arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.
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