Name: Caladium bicolor ‘Heidi’
Etymology:
The genus name Caladium is derived from the Malay word “keladi” for tuberous plants. The specific epithet bicolor means “two-colored” and refers to the contrasting leaf coloration. No documented meaning of the cultivar name ‘Heidi’ is known.
First description:
‘Heidi’ is a horticultural cultivar and has no separate botanical first description. The exact origin and original year of breeding of the cultivar are not clearly documented.
Origin / Distribution:
Cultivar. The underlying species Caladium bicolor originates from tropical America and grows in warm, humid forest areas.
Location / Habitat:
‘Heidi’ does not occur as a natural population. Caladiums prefer warm, humid conditions, bright filtered light, and a loose, well-drained substrate.
Description & Notes:
Caladium bicolor ‘Heidi’ is a compact, tuberous foliage plant with striking heart-shaped leaves. The leaf blades show a delicate light pink to pink base color with fine, net-like venation and a distinctly green leaf margin. The green main veins form an elegant contrast to the light leaf surface and give the cultivar a delicate, almost translucent appearance.

For vigorous growth, ‘Heidi’ requires a warm, bright location without intense direct midday sun, as well as consistent moisture during the growing season. An airy, humus-rich substrate with good drainage protects the tuber from waterlogging. After the leaves have unfurled, the natural dormant phase begins, during which it should be watered significantly less.