'White Christmas' is a popular strap-leaf caladium known for its striking, heart-shaped foliage. Each oversized leaf features a silvery white surface with intricate dark green veins and borders, creating a glowing effect in shady gardens and moonlight landscapes. While this plant may produce small, calla-like flowers in summer, the focus is on its dramatic, decorative leaves, which bring bold style to beds, borders, and containers.
A tropical Caladium bicolor variety, also called angel wings, 'White Christmas' thrives in warm, humid environments and is perennial in Zones 10-11. In colder climates, it grows beautifully as a summer bulb or a houseplant. This caladium shines in naturalistic groupings, hanging baskets, window boxes, and mixed planters, making it a versatile choice for adding elegance to your garden or patio.
'White Christmas' is easy to grow and thrives in shaded to dappled sunlight areas. It tolerates more sun than many other caladiums, particularly in cooler regions. This plant prefers rich, slightly acidic soil that retains moisture but drains well to prevent oversaturation and root rot. Regular watering and monthly fertilization keep this heavy feeder thriving. Its deer-resistant nature and bold foliage make it a reliable choice for years of garden beauty.
Plant bulbs in spring after the frost danger has passed, spacing them 6 to 8 inches apart and planting them 1½ to 2 inches deep with the rounded side and "eyes" facing up. For an earlier start, grow tubers indoors in flats or pots with moist peat moss or vermiculite, and transplant them outdoors when temperatures rise. Removing the main "eye" before planting results in a fuller, rounded growth habit.
In colder areas, lift the tubers in fall after the foliage dies back or before frost arrives. Store them in a cool, dry place where temperatures stay above 45°F. Container-grown plants can be brought indoors to overwinter or to enjoy as houseplants.
