Name: Caladium bicolor ‘Thousand Stars’
Etymology:
The genus name Caladium is derived from the Malay word “keladi” for tuberous plants. The specific epithet bicolor means “two-colored”. The cultivar name ‘Thousand Stars’ (“Thousand Stars”) refers to the numerous small, star-like patches of color on the leaves.
First description:
‘Thousand Stars’ is a horticultural cultivar and has no botanical description of its own. The underlying species Caladium bicolor was scientifically published in 1800.
Origin / Distribution:
Cultivar. Caladium bicolor is native to tropical America and is distributed from Central America to Argentina. ‘Thousand Stars’ does not occur as a natural population.
Location / Habitat:
The cultivar has no natural habitat. Caladiums prefer warm, moist conditions with bright, filtered light and a loose, well-drained substrate. During the dormant phase, the plant retreats into its tuber.
Description & Notes:
Caladium bicolor ‘Thousand Stars’ is a decorative, tuberous foliage plant with large, heart-shaped leaves. The predominantly bright green leaf blades are covered with numerous small, irregular pink to light speckles that look like scattered stars. The clearly pronounced leaf venation and the slightly glossy surface enhance the contrast between the green base color and the fine pattern.

During the growing season, ‘Thousand Stars’ requires warmth, consistent moisture, and a bright location with filtered light. An airy, humus-rich substrate with good drainage protects the tuber from waterlogging. After the leaves have naturally withdrawn, watering is significantly reduced so that the plant can complete its dormant phase undisturbed.