The ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium is an ornamental plant known for its vibrant foliage. Its heart-shaped leaves feature a deep bronze to reddish-purple center, contrasted by salmon-orange speckles and often green margins. This tropical perennial, from Central and South America, adds exotic color to gardens and indoor spaces.
Planting Your Burning Heart Caladium
Choosing Healthy Bulbs
Selecting healthy bulbs is the first step toward a thriving ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium. Look for tubers that are firm, plump, and free from rot, mold, or soft spots. The knobbly top side of the bulb should face upwards when planting.
When and Where to Plant
Plant ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium bulbs after the last frost, when soil temperatures consistently reach 60-70°F (15-21°C). They are suitable for garden beds, containers, or as indoor houseplants. While known for shade, ‘Burning Heart’ tolerates part to full sun, with colors intensifying in brighter light.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Plant ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium bulbs 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8-6.3 cm) deep. Roots emerge from the top of the tuber, requiring adequate depth for development. Space jumbo bulbs about one square foot apart, and smaller #1 bulbs two per square foot. This provides room for mature foliage, which reaches 15-20 inches (38-51 cm) tall and 10-14 inches (25-36 cm) wide.
Essential Care for Burning Heart Caladium
Light Requirements
‘Burning Heart’ Caladium prefers bright, indirect light to partial shade. While it tolerates more sun than other caladiums, intense, direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves or bleach colors. Indoors, a spot near an east-facing window or a few feet from an unobstructed south or west-facing window provides suitable light.
Watering Needs
Keep ‘Burning Heart’ Caladiums consistently moist during their active growing season. The soil should be evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly between thorough waterings. In garden beds, weekly watering may suffice during dry periods, while container plants need more frequent checks.
Soil Preferences
‘Burning Heart’ Caladiums thrive in humus-rich, moist, and well-draining soil. A potting mix high in peat or organic matter with good water retention is suitable. The ideal pH range is slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 6.5. Proper drainage prevents water accumulation around the tubers.
Temperature and Humidity
‘Burning Heart’ Caladium prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Daytime temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C) and nighttime temperatures no lower than 65°F (18°C) promote vigorous growth. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can stunt growth and cause damage. To increase humidity indoors, use a pebble tray, mist foliage regularly, or place a humidifier nearby.
Fertilizing
‘Burning Heart’ Caladiums benefit from regular fertilization during their growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 2-2-3 or 1-1-1 is suitable. Fertilize every two to four weeks, avoiding over-fertilization, which can lead to elongated stems, poor leaf color, or burned leaves. For container plants, a quarter to half-strength solution is sufficient.
Dormancy and Winter Care
Preparing for Dormancy
Caladiums naturally enter dormancy as temperatures cool in autumn, typically when nights become consistently cold or soil temperatures drop below 55-60°F (13-15°C). Signs include leaves yellowing and dying back. During this transition, gradually reduce watering and allow foliage to naturally fade.
Storing Caladium Bulbs
In colder climates (USDA Zones 8 and below), dig up ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium tubers before the first hard frost. After lifting, remove most soil and dry tubers for about a week in a warm, shady, well-ventilated area. Once dry, trim remaining foliage and store bulbs in a cool, dry, dark place, ideally between 55-60°F (13-15°C). Packing them in dry peat moss, vermiculite, or a mesh bag helps prevent rot.
If in containers, bring pots indoors and keep undisturbed, allowing the medium to dry as leaves die back.
Reawakening in Spring
As spring approaches and temperatures rise, typically when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C), stored caladium bulbs can be reawakened. Replant tubers in fresh potting mix or garden soil, following initial planting guidelines. Begin watering lightly, increasing frequency as new growth emerges, to encourage dormancy break and a new growing cycle.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaf Discoloration
Yellowing leaves on ‘Burning Heart’ Caladium can indicate overwatering or insufficient nutrients. Ensure well-draining soil and allow the top layer to dry between waterings to prevent soggy conditions. Browning edges or crispy leaves point to underwatering, low humidity, or excessive direct sun exposure. Increasing humidity through misting or pebble trays and adjusting light exposure can help. Brown spots suggest sunburn from too much direct light.
Lack of Growth
Stunted growth or reduced leaf size can indicate insufficient light, inadequate nutrients, or low temperatures. If leaves are smaller, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during active growth. Ensure the plant receives adequate, indirect light and maintains its preferred warm temperature range. Root restriction in a small container can also limit growth.
Pests and Diseases
‘Burning Heart’ Caladiums are resistant to most pests and diseases, but issues can occur. Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs, which cause distorted or discolored leaves by feeding on sap. Regularly inspect leaf undersides for pests. For mild infestations, insecticidal soap is effective; severe cases may need stronger treatments.
Root rot, caused by overwatering and poor drainage, is a common disease, symptomized by yellowing or wilting leaves and mushy roots. Fungal or bacterial leaf spots can appear as brown or black spots. Improving air circulation and avoiding wetting foliage when watering helps prevent fungal issues.