Caladium ‘Kelly’ is a lively variety with fresh, bright green foliage often veined or lightly brushed with pink tones. Its vibrant leaves bring a fresh, tropical feel indoors and add a splash of colour to shaded outdoor displays in summer.
Scientific Name
Caladium bicolor ‘Kelly’ (two-coloured keladi plant, cultivar: Kelly)
Reclassification or Naming History
Now classified under Caladium bicolor; the genus name comes from the Malay keladi, meaning taro.
Common Name(s)
Elephant Ear, Heart of Jesus, Angel Wings, Green Caladium
Origin
Cultivated variety derived from species native to the Amazon Basin in South America.
Light
Bright, indirect light is best. Allow gentle morning or evening sun in autumn and winter, but protect from harsh summer rays. Outdoors, choose a shaded or part-shaded spot.
Water
Keep evenly moist during the growing season, watering when the top third of soil has dried. Reduce watering in autumn and winter when dormancy begins.
Humidity
Enjoys higher humidity – mist, use a pebble tray, or position near a humidifier.
Soil
Moisture-retentive but free-draining, with added organic matter. Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
Food
Feed every 4 waters during the growing season, reducing to every 6 in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Best at 18–30°C. Growth slows below 15°C; avoid below 10°C.
Pet-safe
No – toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
‘Kelly’ is a reliable grower, perfect for pairing with pink or white caladiums for contrast. Store tubers dry and dark over winter, then replant in spring for another season of bold green foliage.
