Florida Sweetheart Caladium (Caladium bicolor 'Florida Sweetheart')

Florida Sweetheart Caladium

Caladium bicolor 'Florida Sweetheart'

Its heart-shaped leaves blush pink like a shy sweetheart, a vibrant indoor foliage showstopper. Common name: Florida Sweetheart Caladium.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate leaves
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; allow the top 1 cm of soil to dry between waterings
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; temperatures below 15°C can damage underground corms
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Heart-shaped, vibrant pink centers with green margins; thin, papery texture
  • Stem: Short, fleshy underground corms produce upright, smooth petioles
  • Inflorescence: Greenish-white spathe and spadix (rarely produced indoors)
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep substrate consistently moist; mist leaves 2–3 times weekly to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing in autumn as foliage dies back and corms enter dormancy

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 before applying to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to redirect energy to healthy foliage
  • Trim any rare, spent inflorescences to maintain plant focus on leaf growth
  • Dig up outdoor corms in autumn for overwintering in cool, dry storage
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to oral pain, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation and temporary swelling

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes warmth and affection due to its heart-shaped pink foliage

Usage: Ornamental indoor foliage plant; container gardening for patios or bright windowsills