The Strawberry Caladium, a cultivar of Caladium bicolor, is a striking ornamental plant recognized for its distinctive foliage. Its heart-shaped leaves display a vibrant mix of pale green to silvery tones, speckled with strawberry pink blotches and accented by dark green veins and stems. Often referred to as Angel Wings, this tropical beauty adds a burst of color to shaded garden areas or brightens indoor spaces. Caladiums are primarily grown for their showy leaves.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Strawberry Caladiums flourish when provided with specific environmental conditions that mimic their native tropical habitat.
Light Requirements
Strawberry Caladiums thrive in bright, indirect light or partial to full shade. While they can tolerate some morning sun, intense direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, leading to brown edges. Conversely, too little light diminishes their colorful variegation, resulting in less vibrant or predominantly green foliage. Finding a spot with filtered sunlight or a few hours of morning sun is ideal for maintaining their striking leaf patterns.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for Strawberry Caladiums, as they prefer soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to tuber rot, while underwatering causes leaves to wilt and yellow. Check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Watering thoroughly in the early morning is often recommended.
Soil Preferences
Well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil provides a good foundation for Strawberry Caladium growth, with an ideal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Incorporating organic matter like compost or peat moss enhances soil fertility, improves drainage, and increases moisture retention. Avoid heavy, compacted soils to prevent prolonged water retention and tuber rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Strawberry Caladiums are tropical plants that prefer warm temperatures and high humidity. They grow best when daytime temperatures are consistently above 70°F (21°C) and nighttime temperatures remain above 60°F (15°C). In cooler climates, they can be grown indoors. To increase humidity around indoor plants, place the pot on a saucer filled with pebbles and water or use a humidifier.
Fertilization
During the active growing season, Strawberry Caladiums benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Reduce feeding in late summer as the plant prepares for dormancy. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can harm the plant and cause leaf scorching.
Planting Your Strawberry Caladium
When to Plant
The ideal time to plant Strawberry Caladium tubers outdoors is after the last frost has passed and soil temperatures consistently reach at least 65-70°F (18-21°C). Planting too early in cool soil can delay sprouting or cause the tubers to rot. In cooler climates, tubers can be started indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost for a head start.
Choosing Tubers
Select healthy, firm tubers free from mold, rot, or damage. Larger tubers, often graded as #1 or Jumbo, typically have more growth points, or “eyes,” leading to larger and fuller plants. These small bumps indicate where new growth will emerge.
Container vs. In-Ground Planting
Strawberry Caladiums can be grown in both containers and directly in garden beds. For container planting, ensure adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and tuber rot. When planting in garden beds, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Containers offer flexibility, allowing plants to be moved indoors during cooler periods.
How to Plant Tubers
Position the tuber with the knobby side, or “eyes,” facing upward. Plant tubers approximately 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) deep, ensuring they are covered by a thin layer of potting mix. Space tubers 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) apart for a full appearance.
Initial Watering and Placement
After planting, water the tubers thoroughly to help them settle. Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy until sprouting occurs, which typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. Place newly planted tubers in a warm spot with indirect light, around 75°F (24°C), to encourage successful sprouting.
Seasonal Care and Dormancy
Strawberry Caladiums exhibit an annual life cycle that includes a distinct dormant period.
End of Growing Season
As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, typically below 60°F (15°C), Strawberry Caladiums naturally enter their dormant phase. Foliage begins to yellow, droop, and wither, indicating the plant is transferring energy reserves back to the tuber.
Preparing for Dormancy
Gradually reduce watering as the leaves start to die back. Allow the soil to dry out completely once the foliage has shriveled. Allow leaves to die back naturally, as this process helps the tuber absorb remaining nutrients. Once fully withered, cut foliage off at the soil line.
Storing Tubers
In regions with cold winters (USDA Zones 8 and lower), dig up Strawberry Caladium tubers before the first frost. Air dry tubers in a cool, dark, well-ventilated space for one to two weeks to cure. Store dry tubers in a medium such as peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust, in a dark place where temperatures remain above 50-60°F (10-16°C). Storing them in a medium helps prevent desiccation and rot.
Re-sprouting in Spring
After a minimum of 10 weeks of dormancy, tubers can be brought out in late winter or early spring for re-sprouting. When temperatures warm and night temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C), tubers can be replanted outdoors. For an earlier start, pot tubers indoors in a warm, indirect light location. Once new growth appears, regular watering and fertilization can resume.
Addressing Common Problems
Yellowing or Browning Leaves
Yellowing or browning leaves can indicate several issues. Overwatering, leading to soggy soil and tuber rot, is a frequent cause. Insufficient watering can also cause wilting and yellowing. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to brown, crispy edges. Nutrient deficiencies might also contribute to discoloration.
Lack of Variegation
If the vibrant pink and white variegation appears dull or fades, resulting in more green foliage, it is a sign of insufficient light. While these plants prefer shade, they require bright, indirect light to develop their characteristic colorful patterns. Adjusting the plant’s location to receive more filtered sunlight can help restore the leaf coloration.
Pests and Diseases
Strawberry Caladiums are generally resistant to many pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by spider mites and aphids. Tuber rot, often from overwatering or poorly draining soil, is a common issue. Ensure proper drainage and avoid consistently soggy conditions to prevent fungal problems.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light. The plant elongates rather than growing compact and bushy. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect light to encourage denser, more robust growth.