Caladium 'White Christmas' – Classic Elegance with Crisp Contrast
Caladium 'White Christmas' is a striking foliage plant with luminous white leaves and sharply defined dark green veins. The clean contrast and soft texture give it a refined, almost frosted look — ideal for brightening shaded interiors or balancing darker-leaved companions. Compact and easy to style, it adds tropical charm with a minimalist edge.
Why Caladium 'White Christmas' Stands Out

 
Foliage Shape & Feel: Large, heart-shaped leaves with a smooth, paper-thin texture.
 
Color Profile: Snow-white centers framed by crisp dark green veins and margins.
 
Growth Size: Reaches up to 60 cm in height and width indoors.
 
Structure: Upright and bushy, emerging from tubers in clustered groups.

Botanical Background of Caladium 'White Christmas'
This cultivar belongs to Caladium × hortulanum — a hybrid group derived primarily from Caladium bicolor and other South American species. These hybrids were bred for ornamental use and don’t occur in the wild. The parent species are native to the Amazon basin, thriving in the humid, shaded understory. Like all caladiums, 'White Christmas' is toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.
How to Care for Caladium 'White Christmas'

 
Light: Bright, indirect light keeps leaves vibrant. Avoid direct sun, which may bleach or burn them.
 
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season. Reduce watering during dormancy.
 
Humidity: Needs 60%+ for optimal growth. Use a humidifier or group with other plants.
 
Temperature: Best range: 20–27 °C. Growth slows below 16 °C.
 
Soil Mix: Loose, peat-free blend enriched with perlite and coconut coir.
 
Feeding: Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks while actively growing.
 
Repotting: In spring, as needed, when tubers show new growth.
 
Propagation: Divide dormant tubers. Each piece should have at least one growth eye.
 
Semi-Hydro: Adapts well to LECA and other inert substrates with low water levels.
 
Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to direct energy into healthy growth.

Common Problems and Fixes

 
Yellow Leaves: Typically caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Allow topsoil to dry slightly before rewatering.
 
Brown Edges: A sign of low humidity or dry air. Increase moisture levels in the environment.
 
Pests: Watch for spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap.
 
Root Rot: Prevent with breathable substrate and a pot with drainage holes.

Dormancy Care and Bulb Storage

 
Seasonal Dieback: In autumn or under cold conditions, foliage naturally yellows and drops — this is dormancy.
 
Storing Tubers: Once dormant, lift tubers, clean them, and store in a dry, breathable container at ~15 °C.
 
Restarting in Spring: Replant when temperatures stay above 18 °C and water sparingly until shoots emerge.

Etymology and Naming
Caladium is derived from the Malay word "keladi," used for tuberous aroids. The hybrid designation × hortulanum means “of gardens,” reflecting its cultivated origin. ‘White Christmas’ is a trade name referring to its snowy coloration and classic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions

 
Can it grow in low light? It can tolerate lower light but maintains better color contrast in bright, indirect light.
 
How do I store bulbs? Let foliage die back, then store cleaned tubers in a dry, cool place until spring.
 
What causes yellow leaves? Overwatering is the most common cause. Check soil drainage and watering frequency.

Order Caladium 'White Christmas' Now
Add Caladium 'White Christmas' to your indoor jungle for its refined look and striking foliage. Shop bulbs now and enjoy subtle tropical beauty year-round!