Caladium Thai White (jiffy sized plant)

• Common Name: Caladium Thai White

• Scientific Name: Caladium bicolor ‘Thai White’

• Family: Araceae (Aroid family)

• Origin: Native to South America, selectively bred and popularized in Thailand

• Type: Tuberous perennial, grown for ornamental foliage

🍃 Appearance:

• Leaves:

  • Distinctive white leaves with green veins

  • Thin, papery, and heart- or arrowhead-shaped

  • Delicate and translucent in appearance, giving it an elegant, airy look

• Size:

  • Leaves typically grow 6–12 inches long

  • Plant reaches 1–2 feet in height

☀️ Light Requirements:

• Indoors: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sun—it can scorch the delicate white leaves.

• Outdoors: Partial shade to dappled sunlight. Too much sun can fade or damage the foliage.

💧 Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.

• Reduce watering during dormancy (fall/winter) if the leaves die back.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity:

• Temperature: Thrives in warm conditions: 18–30°C (65–86°F)

• Humidity: Prefers high humidity (60%+). Mist occasionally or use a humidifier if grown indoors in dry air.

• Avoid cold drafts or temps below 15°C (59°F), which can stress or kill the plant.

🪴 Soil & Potting:

• Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter (a mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil works well).

• Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.

• Grows from tubers; these can be lifted and stored dry in winter in cooler climates.

🌱 Propagation:

• Propagated by dividing tubers during the dormant season (late fall or early spring).

• Each tuber segment should have at least one growing point (eye).

🌸 Flowers:

• Rarely flower when grown indoors.

• If flowers appear, they are small and pale, somewhat like a peace lily’s spathe and spadix.

• Most people grow Caladiums for foliage, not blooms.

⚠️ Common Issues:

• Leaf burn: Too much direct sunlight

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage

• Pests: Occasionally spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids

• Dormancy: Leaves may die back in cooler months—don’t worry, it’s natural. Reduce watering and let the plant rest.

🌟 Fun Facts:

• Caladiums are sometimes called “Angel Wings” or “Heart of Jesus.”

• The ‘Thai White’ variety is especially prized for its minimalist white and green foliage, making it stand out in tropical gardens or plant collections.

• Non-toxic to touch, but toxic if ingested – keep away from pets and children.