Sun-Tolerant Caladium

Sun Sun-tolerant caladiums perform best in full sun to part shade. They can handle 6 or more hours of direct sun, though morning sun with some afternoon relief will give you the most vibrant color. In full sun, expect more compact plants with bolder, brighter foliage. Too much shade and the colors can fade or become washed out.

Water Caladiums need consistent moisture, especially when getting established and when growing in full sun. Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged — soggy soil leads to tuber rot. The more sun they're in, the more frequently you'll need to water. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture between waterings.

Soil Plant in moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 5.5–6). Caladiums appreciate soil with some organic matter worked in. Good drainage is non-negotiable — tubers sitting in wet soil will rot.

Fertilizer Go light. A slow-release, low-phosphorus fertilizer applied once or twice during the growing season is plenty. Heavy nitrogen will cause the foliage to turn green, which defeats the whole purpose. Never apply fertilizer directly to the leaves.     We highly recommend this one for most of our baskets and the caladium - Amazon - Osmocote Plus at Amazon. Walmart - Osmocote Plus at Walmart

Growth Habit Caladiums grow from tubers and typically reach 12–24 inches tall, with large heart-shaped leaves in combinations of white, pink, red, rose, and green. In full sun they'll stay more compact. They are grown for their foliage — there are no showy flowers to speak of, but the leaves more than make up for it.

Dormancy As fall temperatures cool and nights get longer, caladium foliage will begin to yellow and die back. This is normal — the plant is going dormant, not dying. In Zones 8–11, tubers can remain in the ground over winter as long as drainage is good. Gradually reduce watering as the foliage declines to help the tubers harden off properly.  If you want to dig them up and store them, allow them to completely dry, then keep in a mesh bag with good air flow indoors somewhere cool.  



Florida Credentials Sun-tolerant caladiums thrive in Florida's heat and humidity, making them a standout choice for Gulf Coast gardens. They are perennial in USDA Hardiness Zones 8–11. Plant tubers after soil temperatures are consistently 65°F or warmer.

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Grown locally in Gulf County, FL · Turtle Pines Nursery · turtlepines.blogspot.com

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