Learn Plant Care

Caladium Care Guide

Caladium bicolor

By Learn Plant Care·Toxicity verified via ASPCA
Caladium (Caladium bicolor)
Caladium (Caladium bicolor) · Via Wikimedia Commons (CC)

Quick Answer

Caladium needs watering every 1 week in summer and dormant — do not water in winter. It thrives in bright indirect and temperatures of 65–85°F. Difficulty: Moderate. ⚠️ Toxic to pets — keep away from cats and dogs.

Difficulty

Moderate

Light

Bright indirect

Watering

Every 1 week

Humidity

High (60–80%)

Temperature

65–85°F

Growth Rate

Moderate (seasonal)

Toxicity

⚠️ Toxic to Cats⚠️ Toxic to Dogs✅ Safe for Humans

Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control

Watering

Summer

Every 1 week

Winter

Dormant — do not water

Method: Keep moist in growing season; stop in fall

Light Requirements

Bright indirect

Needs bright indirect light for best color. Too much sun burns leaves.

Soil & Potting

Soil: Rich, moist, well-draining mix

Pot: Any pot with drainage

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)

Humidity: High (60–80%)

Fertilizing

Frequency: Monthly spring/summer

Type: Balanced fertilizer, half strength

Common Problems

Fading colors → Insufficient light. Increase brightness.

Yellow or soggy leaves → Overwatering.

Brown edges → Low humidity or cold air.

Leaves dying back → Normal dormancy in fall. Store dry tuber.

Propagation

Tuber division

Seasonal Care Calendar

🌸 Spring

Start tubers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Plant in warm, moist soil.

☀️ Summer

Peak growth. Water and feed weekly. Maximum humidity and warmth.

🍂 Fall

Growth slows. Allow leaves to die back naturally. Stop fertilizing.

❄️ Winter

Dormant. Store tubers dry at 55–60°F. Do not water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my caladium leaves dying?▾
If in fall/winter, this is normal dormancy. The plant will regrow from tubers in spring.
How do I care for caladium tubers in winter?▾
After leaves die back, dig up tubers, let dry, and store in a cool dry place (55–60°F) until spring.
How often should I water a caladium?▾
Weekly during growing season. Keep consistently moist. Stop watering entirely when leaves die back.
Why are my caladium colors fading?▾
Insufficient light. Move to a brighter spot with bright indirect light. Direct sun will burn the leaves.
Is caladium toxic to pets?▾
Yes — highly toxic to cats and dogs. Causes severe oral irritation (ASPCA).