Contents
Description
Caladium Carolyn Whorton is a tropical plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is a hybrid cultivar of the Caladium bicolor and Caladium picturatum species. This plant is known for its strikingly beautiful leaves that come in shades of pink, green, and white. It was named after Carolyn Whorton, who was one of the pioneers of Caladium breeding.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Caladium |
Appearance
The Caladium Carolyn Whorton plant has heart-shaped leaves that are large and broad with a pointed tip. The leaves are pink in color with green and white margins. The venation of the leaves is prominent and resembles a spider web. The leaves grow up to 12 inches in length and 8 inches in width. The plant can grow up to 18 inches in height. The leaves of this plant are showy and make for an attractive indoor or outdoor plant.
Care Guide
The Caladium Carolyn Whorton plant requires moderate care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:Water: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Overwatering, however, can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this plant.Sunlight: The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Caladium Carolyn Whorton plant is susceptible to pests and diseases like spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these issues:Pests: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Keep the plant away from other infected plants.Diseases: Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent fungal infections. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Caladium Carolyn Whorton plant is native to South America and thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in warm, humid conditions and requires well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Caladium Carolyn Whorton plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors but it requires bright, indirect sunlight.Q: Does the plant require pruning?
A: Yes, pruning the plant can help it grow bushier and fuller.Q: What is the ideal temperature for this plant?
A: The plant grows best in temperatures above 60°F.Q: Can this plant grow in water?
A: No, this plant requires soil to grow.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Caladium Carolyn Whorton:
- Caladium bicolor
- Caladium picturatum
- Caladium humboldtii
- Caladium ‘White Christmas’
References
- “Caladium ‘Carolyn Whorton’.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
- “Caladiums.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, Clemson University.
- “Caladiums for Bright Color in the Shade.” University of Georgia, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
