Caladium (Caladium schomburgkii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Caladium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Caladium
Caladium schomburgkii, also known as Schomburgk's Caladium, is a tropical plant from the Araceae family, prized for its spectacular foliage. Its heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves display vibrant patterns of green, white, and red, creating a unique visual appeal. It is ideal for adding an exotic touch to well-lit interiors or as part of a shaded garden in warm climates, standing out in pots or as an accent in flowerbeds.
Native range
Tropical South America
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist during its active growing period, but avoid waterlogging which can lead to tuber rot. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is exposing it to low temperatures or cold drafts, which can induce premature dormancy or damage the plant.
How to save a dying Caladium
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, soft, droopy leaves, rotting stems. Dry brown spots indicate lack of humidity or direct sun.
- First aid
- Check soil. If waterlogged, remove plant, trim rotten roots, repot in fresh soil. If dry, water moderately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main killer. Also, low humidity and direct sun that burns its delicate leaves.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. A healthy tuber can re-sprout. Trim damaged parts and optimize watering, humidity, and indirect light.