Caladium Strawberry Star

The fancy-leaved Caladium Strawberry Star has large variegated light-colored leaves, dark-green veins, and red speckles. The color of the leaves changes with light intensity, going from pale green to light pink. It's a tuberous plant belonging to the Araceae family. This ornamental aroid is often cultivated in containers or as a border plant. General Caladium Info Scientific name: Caladium x hortulanum Strawberry Star Ships as: Bulb/tuber Bulb size: 1 Plant Type: Herb Life Cycle: Perennial Light Requirements: Part-shade to non-direct sun  Soil pH Preferences: Slightly acidic (6.1 – 6.5) to Neutral (6.6 – 7.3) Maximum Recommended Zone: Zone 13 Other Info: Deer and rabbit resistant Warning: Toxic to cats and dogs Growing Tips Light, Heat, and Humidity: Caladiums require ample light, heat, and humidity for optimal growth. Ensure they are planted in a bright spot with sufficient warmth and humidity. Starting Your Bulbs: Plant bulbs about 2" deep with eyes facing up, 8-12" apart, in a shallow container with good drainage. Keep the pot in a bright location. Watering: Water generously after planting and maintain slightly damp soil. Roots and sprouts will form in a few weeks. Soil: Use a mix of houseplant potting soil, combined with heather soil, perlite, sphagnum moss, or compressed coconut fiber for optimal growth. Caring for Your Caladium Patience: Be patient for growth to appear, typically within a few weeks. Once leaves unfold, repot into a larger pot with the well-draining substrate. Light needs: Caladiums enjoy sun, and bright indirect light enhances the vibrancy of the colors. Humidity: Caladiums love humid conditions. Consider using a humidifier or spraying foliage with filtered water. This helps keep the colors vibrant. Fertilizer: During growth, apply diluted liquid fertilizer for indoor plants, avoiding contact with leaves. Long-term care: It can be grown in the garden or indoors as a houseplant on a veranda or bright windowsill. Pruning: Trimming back the leaves is not necessary. Elephant ears winter care Preparing for Dormancy: As autumn ends, reduce watering gradually. Once foliage wilts completely, cut down stems, and dig up bulbs. Air dry before storing in a dark, well-ventilated, dry place above 15°C.