Botanical name: Caladium x hortulanum

Botanical name: Caladium x hortulanum
Attributes: Almost translucent white leaves with bright red veins, outlined with green edging, add color and contrast to the shadiest garden. Originating from the Amazon jungles of South America, this summer bulb (tuber) loves it hot with abundant moisture.
Bloom color: White insignificant flowers, with brightly colored foliage all summer long.
Bloom time: June-September
Culture: Purchase No. 1 or jumbo-size bulbs from a reputable grower or mail-order company that does not sell or ship any caladium bulb that has been exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees. The bulb will not grow if it has been chilled. Plant it in June or when soil temperatures reach 65 degrees. Plant 9 to 15 inches apart and cover with 1 to 1 inches of a peatlike soil. Water frequently to keep soil moist, but not soggy. Fertilize monthly with a 20-20-20 formulation. In the fall, before the first frost, dig tubers with the leaves on and store in a paper bag between 65-70 degrees. If purchasing a plant already growing, water frequently and keep it above 65 degrees or the leaves will become dwarf and begin to go dormant.
Landscape tips: Caladiums are ideal for heavy shade in mass and work well with hostas, astilbes, coleus, begonias and impatiens.
Cost: For each bulb, $1 to $2. Depending on number of plants or bulbs in container, $3 to $15. Available at most retail nurseries as bulbs or plants and some mail-order companies.
Source: Powell Gardens