Caladium ‘Xplosion’ – Plant Description

Caladium ‘Xplosion’ is a bold and eye-catching cultivar of the tropical Caladium bicolour, renowned for its striking foliage patterning. Native to South America, particularly Brazil, caladiums belong to the Araceae family and are grown primarily for their ornamental leaves.

The foliage of ‘Xplosion’ is dramatic and vibrant. Each heart-shaped leaf has a crisp white base, dramatically marked with vivid pink veining that radiates outwards from the centre. Around these pink veins, green speckles and splashes scatter across the leaf surface, creating a layered, almost painted effect. The combination of white, green, and hot pink gives this cultivar a lively, tropical energy.

Compact yet striking, Caladium ‘Xplosion’ typically reaches 40–60 cm tall and wide, forming a lush mound of colourful leaves during the growing season. Its unique variegation makes it particularly popular in decorative indoor displays, shaded patios, and tropical-style gardens where bold foliage is desired.

Caladium ‘Xplosion’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light indoors. Outdoors, prefers dappled or partial shade. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the thin leaves, especially the lighter-coloured areas.

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Water when the surface feels just dry, ensuring even moisture but never waterlogging. In dormancy (autumn–winter), reduce watering drastically, keeping tubers barely moist until spring growth resumes.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Best in 18–26°C. Avoid cold drafts and never expose to temperatures below 15°C.

• Humidity: High humidity is essential. Mist leaves regularly or place near a humidifier, especially in centrally heated homes.

Soil and Potting

Use a rich, peat-free, well-draining mix with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration. Plant tubers shallowly (just under the soil surface) in spring. Repot each year when bringing out of dormancy.

Feeding

Feed every 2–3 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding when the plant starts to enter dormancy.

Growth and Dormancy

• Growth: Produces a clump of colourful foliage from tubers, with heart-shaped leaves marked in white, pink, and green.

• Dormancy: Naturally enters dormancy in late autumn as leaves die back. Store tubers in the pot with minimal watering, or lift and store in a cool, dry place until spring.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove faded or yellowing leaves as they decline, but allow them to wither naturally so nutrients return to the tuber.

Common Issues

• Crisping edges: Often caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Yellowing leaves: Usually due to overwatering or poor drainage.

• Pests: Can occasionally attract thrips, spider mites, or aphids. Inspect regularly.

Background and Benefits

Caladiums have been cultivated since the 18th century for their showy foliage. ‘Xplosion’ is a particularly modern, vibrant cultivar, celebrated for its artistic blend of pink, green, and white. Its compact form makes it equally suitable for interior décor, shaded garden beds, and patio displays.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect indoors; partial shade outdoors

• Water: Keep soil evenly moist in growing season; reduce in dormancy

• Temperature: 18–26°C; avoid below 15°C

• Humidity: High; mist or use humidifier

• Soil: Rich, free-draining mix

• Feed: Every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: 40–60 cm tall; white leaves with vivid pink veins and green speckles