Caladium tubers

Caladiums are grown for foliage that does the work of flowers. Large, heart-shaped leaves unfurl in combinations of green, white, pink and red, often traced with contrasting veins or softened at the edges. Some varieties are light and translucent, others more richly marked, but all bring a distinctly tropical character to pots, sheltered patios and indoor displays. Although commonly sold as Caladium bulbs, they grow from tubers, which remain dormant until warmth encourages fresh growth.

Warmth is essential. In the UK, Caladium tubers are best started indoors in spring and kept frost free, with bright, indirect light or partial shade as the leaves develop. They prefer warm conditions, regular moisture during active growth and free-draining compost, while cold or waterlogged soil can quickly set them back. Once temperatures are reliably mild, container-grown caladiums can spend summer outside in a sheltered position, then return indoors before autumn temperatures fall.

The appeal of Caladium plants lies in the way each leaf changes the planting around it. Broad foliage can soften the edge of a container, bring contrast to finer leaves or introduce pattern where flowers would feel too busy. Used singly, a caladium becomes a clear focal point. Grouped with ferns, begonias or other shade-tolerant foliage plants, it becomes part of a more layered summer display. For UK gardeners, these tender foliage plants reward careful timing with months of intricate leaf colour and form.