Caladium 'Miss Muffet' in 12 cm pot

Commonly referred to as Heart of Jesus.  Native to the tropical regions of Central and Southern America.  The Caladium was once categorized as an Alocasia or a Colocasia but in recent years has been reclassified as a Caladium.  That does, however, tell us an awful lot about its natural habitat and care requirements!

Let's start with its stunning beauty!  Thin, arrow shaped leaves with a vibrant lime-green background,dark red veining and  pink freckles. 

Caldiums thrive in bright, indirect light.  They can tolerate direct sun but only in the morning and for a short time.  Prolonged periods of direct sunlight will scorch those stunning leaves. Water when the soil feels almost but not quite entirely dry.  Caladiums enjoy a humid environment.  Feed during the summer months and ensure the soil is organically rich and free draining.  Caladiums grow from tubers, therefore, come the autumn, you will begin to see your plant die back.  When the leaves begin to brown, hold off watering and cut back, ready for new growth to emerge in Spring.