Caladiums are beautiful foliage plants with a large variety of colourful leaves. This makes them perfect houseplants that are showy and add colours to a space.Â
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Below is a general care guide for Caladium plants which can slightly differ depending on variety.
Light & Temperature
When grown indoors, caladiums will thrive under medium to bright indirect light. When grown outdoors, they prefer to be under partial shade as direct sun will scorch the leaves. In general, a spot with bright indirect light will be a good spot to place your caladium.
Caladiums enjoy warm temperatures and are intolerant to the cold, so choose an area for them away from air vents and drafts.Â
Watering, Humidity & Misting
Caladiums enjoy evenly moist soil, however, make sure that the soil is damp but not soggy. Water your Caladium thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, usually about once a week.
Being a tropical tuber plant, Caladiums appreciate high humidity. To boost humidity, mist the plant frequently, or you can also set up a tray with water and pebbles or a humidifier.Â
Soil and Repotting
Caladiums prefer rich, well-draining soil that still retains some moisture.Â
Caladiums do not need frequent repotting as it rarely out grows its pot. Repotting can be done about once every two to three years, each time sizing up the pot slightly.Â
Propagation
Propagating Caladiums are relatively simple and can be done through the division of tubers of mature plants. Just be sure that each new tuber sections has at least one growing site.
Fertiliser
Use a balanced fertiliser formulated for houseplants. Follow directions on the label of plant food.
Toxicity
Caladiums are toxic if ingested and should be kept out of the reach of children and pets. Ingesting the leaves can cause swelling, eye pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Possible Issues
Under the right care and conditions, your plant will grow happy and healthy. But here are some issues you may encounter while caring for a Caladium:Â
Scale, aphids and spider mites - When spotted, wipe the leaves and stems with a soft cloth with warm, soapy water or neem oil.
Brown blotches on leaves - This is a sign that the leaves are sunburnt. Move your plant to a spot with more shade.Â
Drooping leaves - This can be caused by a myriad of reasons: underwatering, overwatering, root rot and fungal infection.