Caladium ‘Gingerland’ is an ornamental plant known for its striking foliage, adding vibrant color to gardens and indoor settings. This tuberous perennial brightens shaded areas with its unique visual appeal.
Understanding Gingerland Caladium
Gingerland Caladium is a dwarf, strap-leaved variety recognized for its uniquely patterned foliage. Its lance-shaped leaves are creamy white, adorned with cranberry-red freckles and framed by contrasting dark green margins. This combination of colors creates a festive and intricate appearance. Growing 12 to 18 inches tall and wide, it is well-suited for shaded garden beds, borders, containers, and as an indoor plant. It is classified as a fancy-leaf caladium, valued primarily for its decorative leaves rather than its inconspicuous, calla-type flowers.
Planting and Growing Gingerland Caladium
Plant Gingerland Caladium bulbs in spring, after the last frost and when soil temperatures reach at least 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting in cold soil can stunt growth or lead to tuber rot. These plants thrive in humusy, moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 5.5 and 7.0. Amending heavy or sandy soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss improves drainage and nutrient content.
Position tubers 1.5 to 3 inches deep with the knobby side, or “eyes,” facing upward. Space individual bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart for optimal growth. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the bulbs.
Ongoing Care for Gingerland Caladium
Gingerland Caladium flourishes in bright, indirect light or partial to full shade, as direct sun can scorch its delicate leaves and fade their vibrant colors. While some newer varieties tolerate morning sun, protection from intense afternoon sun is beneficial. The soil should remain evenly moist but not waterlogged to prevent tuber rot. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
These tropical plants prefer warm conditions, with ideal temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and do not tolerate cold temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. High humidity is also beneficial, mimicking their native Amazon Basin environment. Misting occasionally or grouping plants can help increase humidity. During the active growing season, from spring through summer, fertilize every two to six weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength to avoid burning the leaves.
Overwintering Gingerland Caladium
In regions with cooler climates (USDA Zones 8 and lower), Gingerland Caladium bulbs require overwintering. After the foliage begins to yellow and die back, typically with the onset of cool autumn weather or before the first frost, carefully dig up the tubers. Remove soil from the bulbs, leaving the foliage attached.
Allow the bulbs to dry in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space for one to two weeks until the leaves shrivel. Once dry, cut the foliage off about an inch above the bulb. Store the cured tubers in a cool, dry, dark location where temperatures remain between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Packing them in dry peat moss, sand, or vermiculite helps prevent excessive drying, ensuring the bulbs do not touch each other to minimize rot.
Common Issues and Solutions
Gingerland Caladiums are robust, but can encounter issues. Leaf scorch, characterized by browned edges or spots on leaves, indicates too much direct sunlight exposure. Moving the plant to a shadier location prevents this damage. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, which leads to soggy soil and potential tuber rot, or it can be a natural sign of dormancy as the plant prepares for its resting period. Adjusting watering practices to ensure consistent moisture without saturation. While generally disease and pest-free, occasional pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can appear. Addressing these promptly with appropriate horticultural solutions maintains plant health.