Caladium ‘White’ – Plant Description

Caladium ‘White’ is an elegant cultivar of Caladium bicolour, celebrated for its luminous, light-toned foliage. Part of the Araceae family and native to the rainforests of South America, caladiums are prized for their paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves that display intricate patterns and colours.

The ‘White’ cultivar is distinguished by its predominantly white leaves, often accented with delicate green veins or soft green margins. Some leaves show subtle silver tones, while others appear almost pure white, giving the plant a fresh, airy quality. Its pale foliage brings brightness into shaded interiors or garden corners, pairing beautifully with darker-leaved plants for contrast.

Compact and clumping, Caladium ‘White’ typically reaches 40–60 cm tall, producing a dramatic burst of foliage from tubers each growing season. Its minimalist, refined colouring makes it a favourite among modern plant lovers seeking a tropical yet understated houseplant.

Caladium ‘White’ – Care Guide

Light

Indoors: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Outdoors: Best in partial to full shade. Direct sun can easily scorch the delicate white leaves.

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist in the growing season (spring through early autumn). Water thoroughly when the surface begins to dry, but never allow the soil to stay waterlogged. During dormancy, reduce watering drastically.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–26°C. Avoid cold draughts and exposure below 15°C.

• Humidity: High humidity is essential. Mist leaves regularly or use a humidifier to prevent crisping edges.

Soil and Potting

Use a rich, well-draining peat-free compost mixed with perlite or orchid bark for aeration. Plant tubers shallowly, just beneath the surface, in spring. Repot annually at the start of the growing season.

Feeding

Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer. Stop feeding once the plant starts to enter dormancy.

Growth and Dormancy

• Growth: Produces delicate white heart-shaped leaves accented with green veins or margins.

• Dormancy: Naturally dies back in autumn as tubers rest. Keep tubers almost dry in the pot, or lift and store in a cool, dry place until spring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove fading or yellowing leaves at the base. Allow leaves to die back naturally so that nutrients return to the tuber.

Common Issues

• Crisp leaf edges: Caused by low humidity.

• Yellowing leaves: Usually due to overwatering.

• Scorched leaves: From exposure to direct sun.

• Pests: May attract thrips, aphids, or spider mites; inspect regularly.

Background and Benefits

Caladiums have been cultivated since the 18th century and remain some of the most decorative foliage plants available. Caladium ‘White’ offers a refined, minimalist alternative to brightly coloured cultivars, providing a clean, luminous look that brightens interiors and shaded gardens alike.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect indoors; shade outdoors

• Water: Keep moist in growth; reduce in dormancy

• Temperature: 18–26°C; protect from cold

• Humidity: High; mist or use humidifier

• Soil: Rich, well-draining mix

• Feed: Every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: 40–60 cm; heart-shaped white leaves with green accents