Caladium Bulbs

A living stained-glass window for your garden.

Caladiums are grown for their extraordinary heart-shaped foliage — splashed, veined, and freckled in shades of pink, white, red, and green. These tropical beauties bring dramatic colour to shady patios, garden beds, and containers where many other plants fade into green.

Each bulb produces lush, paper-thin leaves that glow in filtered light, making them perfect for layered planters and soft, romantic borders.

Light: Bright indirect light to partial shade
Height: 12–24 inches
Best for: Shade gardens, patio containers, underplanting

A summer statement plant that feels both nostalgic and wildly tropical.

How to Grow Caladium Bulbs

Warm soil. Gentle light. A little patience — and then a riot of colour.

🌱 Planting Time

Plant outdoors once soil temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F). In Alberta, this is typically late May to early June.

You can start bulbs indoors 4–6 weeks earlier for a head start.

🥔 Planting the Bulb

• Plant 1–2 inches deep
• Position with knobby “eyes” facing upward
• Space 8–12 inches apart

If bulbs are large, they can be divided — just ensure each piece has at least one eye.

🌿 Soil & Location

• Rich, well-draining soil
• Partial shade to bright indirect light
• Morning sun is tolerated; avoid harsh afternoon sun

In containers, use a high-quality potting mix with added compost.

💧 Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy
• Do not allow soil to dry out completely
• Reduce watering as foliage begins to decline in fall

Caladiums prefer consistent moisture but dislike sitting in water.

🌡 Temperature

These are true tropical plants. Growth slows dramatically in cool weather. They thrive in warmth and humidity.

🍂 End of Season Care (Cool Climates)

In colder regions like Alberta:
• Dig bulbs before first frost
• Allow to dry for several days
• Store in a cool (15–20°C), dry place over winter
• Replant the following spring

Why Grow Caladium?

• Exceptional foliage colour
• Ideal for shade gardens
• Perfect container feature plant
• Easy seasonal tropical impact

They’re less about flowers — and entirely about leaf drama.