Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' – Vivid Foliage for Shade and Style


Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' is a bold and colorful ornamental cultivar valued for its large, heart-shaped leaves with bright pink centers, rich green margins, and vibrant red veins. Originally bred from tropical South American species like Caladium bicolor, this hybrid adds a splash of tropical color to shaded interiors or outdoor areas during the growing season. Its foliage brings high contrast and visual drama to any collection.


What Makes Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' Unique



 
Eye-Catching Colors: Pink leaf centers framed by dark green edges and strong red veining create a vivid, painterly effect.
 
Seasonal Growth: Grows actively in spring and summer, with a natural dormancy phase in cooler months.
 
Versatile Use: Suitable for bright indoor spaces or shaded gardens and balconies during warm weather.


Natural Habitat of Caladium Ancestors


The wild ancestors of Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' originate from lowland tropical rainforests in Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas. These aroids grow in rich, moist soil under the shade of rainforest canopies, where humidity is high and light is filtered. Cultivars like 'Carolyn Whorton' are bred for ornamental use and do not occur in the wild.


How to Care for Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton'



 
Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid full sun, which can fade or scorch foliage.
 
Watering: Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feel dry. Keep soil slightly moist but never soggy.
 
Humidity: Requires high humidity (60%+). Use a humidifier or place near other plants to increase moisture.
 
Temperature: Ideal range is 18–27°C. Growth stops below 16°C.
 
Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix such as coconut fiber, bark, and perlite. Avoid dense, compacted soils.
 
Feeding: Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the active growing season.
 
Propagation: Divide tubers in early spring, ensuring each segment has at least one growing point or eye.
 
Repotting: Refresh soil at the beginning of the growing season. Choose a pot with good drainage.


Dormancy and Spring Reactivation


Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' enters dormancy in autumn as days shorten or temperatures fall. Let the foliage die back naturally, then remove and clean the tubers. Store them in a breathable bag or box with sawdust or peat at 15–18°C in a dark, dry place. To reactivate in spring, soak tubers for a few hours in lukewarm water, then plant in fresh substrate and place in a warm, bright area to trigger growth.


Common Issues and Solutions



 
Yellowing Leaves: Often caused by overwatering. Allow top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
 
Brown Edges: Indicates low humidity or dry air. Use a humidity tray or mist occasionally.
 
Pests: Susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
 
Root Rot: Linked to poor drainage or waterlogged soil. Always use airy, well-draining substrate.


Etymology of Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton'


The genus name Caladium is derived from the Malay word kaladi, which refers to edible aroid tubers. The species name bicolor means “two-colored” in Latin, referencing the contrasting foliage of the wild types. The cultivar name ‘Carolyn Whorton’ honors an individual associated with its introduction, though the exact historical origin remains unclear.


Frequently Asked Questions About Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton'



 
Is Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' toxic? Yes. It contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
 
Can I grow it outdoors? Yes, in shaded garden beds or pots during warm months. Bring indoors before temperatures drop below 16°C.
 
How do I restart the plant in spring? Soak stored tubers for a few hours, plant in moist soil, and keep warm (18°C+) to encourage sprouting.


Order Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton' – Bright Tropical Contrast for Your Space


Add vibrant energy to your home or garden with Caladium 'Carolyn Whorton'. Shop now and enjoy lush, high-impact foliage from spring to fall!