Sweetheart Caladium Plant

The Caladium strap leaf 'Sweetheart' boasts vibrant, heart-shaped leaves in a vivid pink hue, providing a lasting display of color and texture throughout the season. These radiant leaves are framed with a touch of green along the edges, culminating in a pointed lance-like tip. The Sweetheart truly captivates with its intense and striking foliage, making it a standout in any garden setting.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in late spring or early summer after the last frost date when the soil has warmed

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-6.5

Watering Specifics:

• - Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent tuber rot
• - For container-grown Caladiums, water more frequently as containers dry out faster

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
• - Supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
• - Reduce feeding in late summer as the plant prepares for dormancy

Pruning and Training:

• - No major pruning is necessary, but trimming spent foliage can encourage new growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Generally pest-resistant

Blooming Indicators:

• - Primarily grown for its colorful, heart-shaped leaves rather than its flowers

Light Requirements:

• - Thrives in partial shade to full shade
• - Prefers morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates
• - Can tolerate full shade, but leaf color may be less vibrant in low light

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Can tolerate high humidity, making it ideal for tropical gardens
• - Not frost-hardy; dig up tubers and store indoors in colder climates or treat as an annual

Companion Plants for Caladium:

• - Hostas: The lush, shade-loving foliage of Hostas provides a beautiful contrast with Caladium
• - Coleus: Their vibrant, textured foliage pairs well with the colorful leaves of Caladium
• - Impatiens: The bright, shade-tolerant blooms of Impatiens complement Caladium’s striking foliage
• - Begonias: The colorful flowers and foliage of Begonias blend beautifully with Caladium in shaded gardens