Caladium 'Tapestry' – Living Mosaic for Shaded Spaces
Caladium 'Tapestry' transforms shaded rooms into striking visual spaces with its finely veined, heart-shaped leaves. A pale, almost white base is bordered by deep green margins and etched with burgundy-red veins, creating the appearance of hand-drawn botanical art. When backlit, the papery texture glows, giving every leaf a unique stained-glass effect. This compact hybrid adds color, pattern, and vertical shape without overwhelming your space.


Why Caladium 'Tapestry' Stands Out


 
Foliage Design: White-centered leaves with dark green borders and intricate burgundy veining.
 
Indoor Size: Grows up to 50–60 cm in height and spread — ideal for smaller spaces or grouped arrangements.
 
Growth Habit: Upright and bushy; forms dense clumps from underground tubers.


Botanical Background of Caladium 'Tapestry'


This cultivar belongs to the hybrid group Caladium × hortulanum, which includes most commercially available ornamental caladiums. 'Tapestry' is the result of crossing cultivars like 'White Christmas' and 'Red Flash'. While its exact breeding origin is proprietary, its genetic roots trace back to species from the Amazon basin, particularly Caladium bicolor and related taxa. These plants evolved under the forest canopy, thriving in warmth, moisture, and dappled light. All parts are toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.


Indoor Care Tips for Caladium 'Tapestry'


 
Light: Bright, indirect light keeps colors crisp. Avoid direct sun — it causes fading or scorching.
 
Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist in the growing season. Let the top 2–3 cm dry slightly between waterings.
 
Humidity: Prefers 60%+. Group with other plants or use a humidifier for best results.
 
Temperature: Grows well between 18–27 °C. Avoid exposure below 16 °C.
 
Soil: Use a peat-free, airy mix with perlite and coconut coir.
 
Fertilizer: Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
 
Repotting: In spring, if the plant outgrows its pot. Use breathable containers with drainage.
 
Propagation: Divide tubers during dormancy — each piece should include at least one growth eye.
 
Semi-Hydro: Adapts well to LECA setups with low water levels and good airflow.


Common Issues and How to Fix Them


 
Yellow Leaves: Often due to overwatering or poor drainage. Improve substrate and let it dry slightly between waterings.
 
Brown Edges: Caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase ambient moisture and monitor soil closely.
 
Root Rot: Prevent by avoiding dense or soggy substrates. Always use airy, draining mixes.
 
Pests: Watch for spider mites or mealybugs. Treat early with natural insecticide.


Dormancy and Replanting


 
Leaf Dieback: Natural in autumn or at low temperatures. Leaves yellow and drop as tubers rest.
 
Storage: Lift dry tubers, brush off soil, and store in paper bags or dry medium at ~15 °C.
 
Restarting: Replant in early spring when temperatures stay above 18 °C. Water lightly until growth resumes.


Etymology and Classification


The genus name Caladium comes from the Malay word "keladi", used for tuberous aroids. The hybrid group × hortulanum means “of gardens” in Latin — a nod to its man-made origin. 'Tapestry' is a cultivar name chosen to reflect the intricate leaf pattern, not a Latin species epithet.


3 Frequently Asked Questions


 
Can I grow 'Tapestry' outdoors? Yes, but only in shade and above 18 °C. Bring bulbs in before frost.
 
Why are my leaves pale or losing contrast? Likely too little light. Move closer to a bright, filtered source.
 
Can I grow it all year? Only indoors with warm temps and high humidity. Otherwise, allow natural dormancy in winter.


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