Caladium 'Casey' – Tropical Color Burst for Indoors or Shade Gardens


Caladium 'Casey' is a vibrant foliage cultivar known for its bold color combination of green, pink, and white. With its ornamental arrowhead-shaped leaves and compact clumping habit, 'Casey' adds striking contrast to bright interiors or shaded outdoor spaces. This tuberous aroid offers dramatic seasonal foliage from spring through autumn and is a rewarding choice for both collectors and beginners.


Why Caladium 'Casey' Stands Out



 
Striking Foliage: Large, heart- to arrow-shaped leaves with intense pink zones, dark green borders, and irregular white spotting.
 
Seasonal Display: Grows actively from spring to autumn, then naturally enters dormancy.
 
Versatile Styling: Ideal for indoor pots, shaded balconies, or seasonal outdoor arrangements.


Origins of Caladium 'Casey'


'Casey' is a cultivated variety developed from South American tropical aroids. Its parent species originate from the rainforest understory, where high humidity, filtered light, and rich organic soil create ideal growing conditions. While 'Casey' does not exist in the wild, it reflects the vibrant patterns found in its wild relatives.


Care Guide for Caladium 'Casey'



 
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can cause leaf scorch.
 
Watering: Keep soil lightly moist. Allow the top 2–3 cm to dry between waterings. Never leave the pot standing in water.
 
Humidity: Requires 70% or higher. Use a humidifier, misting, or pebble tray indoors.
 
Temperature: Thrives between 18–27 °C. Growth halts below 16 °C; dormancy may begin.
 
Soil: Use a loose, peat-free mix with coconut fiber, fine bark, and perlite for good aeration.
 
Feeding: Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
 
Dormancy: In cooler months or with reduced light, foliage dies back. Remove, dry, and store the tuber in a dark place at 15–18 °C. Soak briefly before replanting in spring.


Common Issues and Fixes



 
Yellowing Leaves: Typically caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry slightly between waterings.
 
Root Rot: Prevent by using a breathable, well-draining substrate and pots with drainage holes.
 
Pests: Look out for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
 
Brown Leaf Edges: A sign of dry air. Raise humidity with misting or a humidifier.


Etymology of Caladium


The genus name Caladium comes from the Malay word kaladi, referring to tuberous aroid plants traditionally cultivated in Southeast Asia. The cultivar name 'Casey' was assigned during selection and breeding, though its exact origin remains unrecorded.


Frequently Asked Questions About Caladium 'Casey'



 
Is Caladium 'Casey' toxic? Yes. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
 
What happens in winter? The plant goes dormant. Let the foliage die back, then store the cleaned tuber cool and dry until spring.
 
Can I grow it outdoors? Yes, during warm months. Plant in containers or lift the tuber before first frost.


Bring Home Caladium 'Casey' – High-Impact Color for Shaded Spaces


Add bold seasonal color to your indoor garden or summer patio with Caladium 'Casey'. Order now and enjoy its dramatic foliage all season long!