Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton'
It transforms shaded corners into vibrant tropical displays with its brilliantly coloured foliage. Its excellent container performance also makes it easy to enjoy on patios or indoors.
Carolyn Whorton Caladium (Caladium bicolor ‘Carolyn Whorton’) stands out with its large, heart-shaped leaves in vivid shades of pink, red, and green. Their dark mottling, soft green margins, and slightly translucent texture create a striking tropical effect in shaded areas. Reaching 40 to 50 cm in height, this caladium quickly forms a dense, colourful clump, while its discreet flowers have little ornamental value. Perennial in Zone 10, it is not winter hardy in Quebec and should be grown as a seasonal plant or brought indoors before cold weather arrives.
Plant the tuberous root in spring once the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed, approximately 5 cm deep, with the eye facing upward. Place it in partial sun or partial shade in rich, organic, light, slightly acidic to neutral, evenly moist, and perfectly drained soil. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture without allowing the growing medium to become waterlogged. Apply a balanced fertilizer every three weeks to support healthy growth. In autumn, allow the foliage to yellow naturally, then store the tubers in a warm, dry location.
Ideal for shaded flower beds, large containers, covered patios, and bright indoor displays, this caladium creates a colourful, exotic focal point. It pairs beautifully with begonias, impatiens, ferns, hostas, and coleus to create tropical scenes rich in contrast. Its main appeal is its spectacular foliage, which remains highly ornamental throughout the season, rather than its flowers or value to pollinators. Grown exclusively for its beauty, this plant is not intended for consumption.
