Caladium 'Pliage' – White-Green Elegance for Indoors

Caladium 'Pliage' is a sophisticated cultivar known for its white arrowhead-shaped leaves outlined by deep green veins and borders. The high-contrast pattern gives the impression of hand-painted detail, creating a refined, artistic feel. Ideal for tabletops and plant shelves, this compact aroid brings a crisp, modern edge to indoor plant styling.


Why Choose Caladium 'Pliage'?

High-Contrast Foliage: Clean white centers with bold green veining and borders.
Compact Growth: Upright, bushy habit that reaches up to 75 cm under ideal conditions.
Versatile Placement: Perfect for bright rooms, shaded patios, or grouped with other tropicals.


Habitat and Growth Background
'Pliage' is a cultivated Caladium hybrid developed from wild species like Caladium bicolor, which are native to the humid, shaded lowland forests of Brazil, Colombia, and the Guianas. In nature, Caladiums grow beneath dense rainforest canopies in loose, rich soil with high humidity. Like all Caladiums, this variety is toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.


Caladium 'Pliage' Care Instructions

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun can bleach or scorch the leaves.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, letting the top 2–3 cm dry between waterings. Avoid soggy soil.
Humidity: Requires 60–80% humidity. Use a humidifier or group with other plants to boost levels.
Temperature: Thrives between 20–30 °C. Growth slows below 16 °C, and dormancy starts below 15 °C.
Soil: Use a loose, peat-free mix enriched with perlite and coconut fiber for aeration and drainage.
Fertilizer: Apply a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the active growing season.
Repotting: Refresh the soil annually in spring before active growth resumes.
Propagation: Divide tubers during dormancy, ensuring each section has a growth eye.
Semi-Hydro: Can be grown in LECA or similar substrate if kept warm and humid with proper nutrients.
Pruning: Remove yellow or fading leaves to promote airflow and fresh growth.


Dormancy and Tuber Storage

Autumn: Reduce watering as leaves fade. Stop fertilizing and let the plant die back naturally.
Tuber Storage: Remove dry tubers and store in a cool (15 °C), dry space in vermiculite or paper.
Spring: Replant tubers once temperatures exceed 18 °C. Resume light watering as shoots emerge.


Common Problems and Fixes

Brown Edges: Caused by dry air. Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier.
Drooping Leaves: Can be from underwatering, cold stress, or soggy soil. Check environment and moisture balance.
Pests: Check regularly for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Yellow Leaves: Usually from overwatering or poor drainage. Improve substrate and reduce watering.
Root Rot: Prevent by using breathable soil and pots with drainage holes.
Fungal Spots: Avoid overhead watering and improve ventilation.
Sunburn: White leaves are prone to scorching — relocate to filtered light.


Interesting Notes on Caladium 'Pliage'

Named for its folded or “pleated” visual texture, giving structure to an otherwise delicate leaf.
Performs well as a seasonal houseplant or outdoor container plant in summer shade.
Returns each season from stored tubers, if given proper dormancy care.


Etymology and Classification
Caladium is derived from the Malay word kaladi, used for edible aroids. The species name bicolor refers to the typical two-tone patterning in wild types. 'Pliage' is a nursery-bred cultivar; its name means “fold” or “crease” in French, referencing the leaf's dramatic veining.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Caladium dropping leaves in winter? It’s going dormant. Stop watering and store the tuber until spring.
Can it grow outdoors? Yes, but only in shaded outdoor spaces with temperatures above 18 °C. Bring indoors before autumn chill.
How do I encourage fuller growth? Boost humidity, water consistently, and use a balanced fertilizer. Trim faded leaves to direct energy to new ones.


Order Caladium 'Pliage' – A Living Work of Art
Looking for elegant, high-contrast foliage? Caladium 'Pliage' delivers style, simplicity, and seasonality. Order now to elevate your indoor plant setup!