Crazy for Caladiums! One of the best bulbs for shaded areas, but unfortunately, one of the most overlooked is the Caladium. Grown primarily for their foliage, these larger-leaved plants will add color to the shaded areas of a landscape all season long with their colorful leaves. A close relative of the sun-loving Elephant Ear, Caladiums grow much shorter, often topping out at 20″ tall. Caladiums look great when planted between shade-loving perennials.
Classification
Caladiums are commonly categorized into two groups based on their leaf morphology: fancy and strap leaf varieties. Fancy leaf caladiums are the more common of the two and have broad heart-shaped or almost arrowhead-shaped leaves. They also generally grow a bit taller than the Strap Leaf type. The strap leaf has a more pointed, narrow, heart-shaped leaf shape and produces a more compact plant.
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Growing Caladiums
Again, one of the best plants for shade but also one of the most over-looked bulbs, caladiums definitely deserve a spot in your garden. Their colorful foliage and perfect height make them a “must-have” for the darker areas of the landscape and add a great texture!
Have a question about caladiums or any other bulb gardening topic? Send us an email: jenny@bulbblog.com
