Caladiums are a beautiful add-on to any garden or landscape , and they certainly do love warmth . They thrive in warm and tropical climates , where temperatures range between 70 and 85 academic degree Fahrenheit ( 21 to 29 grade Celsius ) . These plants are native to South America , specifically the Amazon basin , where they grow in the warm and humid conditions of the rainforest .

There are two main types of caladiums – fancy leaf and strap leaf . The fancy leaf caladiums have tumid , heart - shaped leaves with intricate and vivacious patterns . These pattern can include combinations of colors like blood-red , pinkish , white , and green , create a stunning ocular display . On the other hand , strap foliage caladiums have narrower , elongated leave that resemble strap or swords . While they may not have the same intricate pattern as fancy leaf caladiums , they can still be quite striking with their solid colors and glistening appearing .

In my personal experience , I have constitute that both types of caladiums can be equally stunning and add a touch of tropical beauty to any garden . However , the choice between fancy foliage and strap foliage caladium in the end comes down to personal preference and the overall aesthetic you are try out to attain in your garden or landscape painting .

When it comes to care for caladium , it is crucial to provide them with the right conditions to thrive . As mentioned earlier , caladiums love and necessitate heat . They are not frost - patient of plants and can not hold up cold temperatures . Therefore , it is crucial to plant caladium in a positioning where they will find plenty of sunlight and warmth throughout the day .

In terms of soil , caladiums prefer well - draining soil that is rich in organic matter . Adding compost or well - rot manure to the grime before planting can help provide the nutrient that caladium demand to grow and boom . to boot , caladiums prefer slightly acidic dirt with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5 .

When it comes to watering , caladium savour damp soil but do not wish to be waterlogged . It is important to irrigate them regularly , especially during spicy and dry periods , but be thrifty not to overwater . Overwatering can lead to root buncombe and other issues . Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture in the soil and modulate temperature .

Caladiums are typically grown from tubers , which are exchangeable to bulbs . set the tubers about 2 to 3 inches deep with the eyes facing upwards . The eyes are little bud that will eventually sprout and grow into leaves . It is recommend to plant caladium Tuber in the springiness , after the risk of frost has passed .

In term of maintenance , caladiums may benefit from regular dressing with a balanced , slow - going fertilizer . This can aid provide the necessary nutrient for healthy development and vivacious leafage . to boot , remove any yellow or damage leaves can help raise new growth and keep the plants bet their undecomposed .

While caladium do love warmth , they come in two main types – fancy leaf and shoulder strap leafage . Both types can add together beauty and tropical vibraphone to your garden or landscape painting . By providing the proper conditions , such as lovingness , well - drain soil , and right watering , you may savor the stunning foliage of caladium throughout the produce season .

Caroline Bates