Caladium ‘Fallen City’ is a visually striking addition to any plant collection, known for its dramatic, vibrant foliage. This cultivar stands out among caladium varieties, offering distinctive leaf patterns and rich coloration that add bold visual interest in both indoor settings and shaded garden spaces.
Understanding Caladium ‘Fallen City’
Caladium ‘Fallen City’ is a cultivar known for its remarkable leaf characteristics. Its heart-shaped foliage typically features a deep red center, radiating into green hues, often with prominent, contrasting white or cream venation. As the plant matures, these colors intensify, and the leaves may grow larger, enhancing their striking appearance.
Planting and Ongoing Care
Successful cultivation of Caladium ‘Fallen City’ requires proper planting and attentive care during its active growing season. The right environment allows these tropical plants to thrive.
Site and Soil Preparation
Caladium ‘Fallen City’ thrives in well-drained, rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Plant tubers about 2 inches deep, ensuring the “eyes” face upwards. Soil temperatures should be consistently above 65°F (18°C) before planting to prevent tuber rot and encourage growth. Incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure improves soil aeration and drainage.
Watering and Humidity
Caladiums require consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. These plants prefer high humidity (60-75%). To increase humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray, group plants, or use a humidifier. While misting offers temporary relief, ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Light Requirements
Caladium ‘Fallen City’ prefers bright, indirect light or partial to full shade. Direct sun, especially intense afternoon sun, can scorch foliage, causing leaves to brown or appear washed out. Indoors, an east-facing window or a spot a few feet back from a south or west-facing window with filtered light is ideal. Sufficient light maintains vibrant leaf colors.
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring through summer), Caladium ‘Fallen City’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly or every two weeks at a diluted strength. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to root burn and negatively impact foliage. Always apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Pest and Disease Watch
Caladiums can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of these pests. Overwatering and poor drainage often cause root rot, leading to yellowing or wilting leaves. Proper soil moisture and good air circulation prevent most diseases.
Managing Dormancy and Winter Storage
Caladiums are seasonal tuberous plants that naturally enter dormancy, especially in cooler climates. As days shorten in fall, leaves yellow, droop, and die back, signaling dormancy. In USDA zones 8 and lower, dig up tubers before the first frost or when temperatures consistently fall below 60°F (15°C).
After digging, gently remove excess soil but keep foliage attached. Cure tubers in a single layer in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks. Once leaves shrivel and tubers feel dry, cut off dried foliage about an inch above the tuber. Store cleaned tubers in a dry medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or sand, in a dark, cool location (50-60°F / 10-15°C) until spring.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with diligent care, Caladium ‘Fallen City’ may show signs of distress. Understanding common issues helps in providing timely solutions.
Yellowing leaves often indicate improper moisture (overwatering or insufficient watering). Check soil moisture; soggy soil suggests root rot, while dry soil causes wilting. Yellowing can also signal nutrient deficiency, so ensure regular fertilization.
Browning leaf edges typically point to low humidity or direct sun exposure. Increase ambient humidity and move the plant to a shadier spot to resolve this. Stunted growth or curling leaves can result from cold temperatures or drafts, as these tropical plants prefer warmth. Maintaining consistent temperatures (60-85°F / 15-29°C) promotes healthy development.