Fancy leaved caladiums are the more popular type. Large colorful somewhat heartshaped leaves are characteristic of this type. The distinguishing characteristic of the lance leaved type is a narrow elongated leaf. The length of the leaves is similar to the fancy leaved type but the plants are usually more compact. Lance leaved caladiums are hardier and lend themselves for use in flower arrangements because of their lasting quality as cut foliage.
Caladiums grow best on high organic, well aerated soil.
To obtain these soil conditions it is generally necessary to amend sandy soils with organic matter. Sources of organic matter include peat moss,well rotted manure, and compost. Caladiums can be grown in unamended poor soil for at least one season since there is enough food stored in the tuber to last one season. Tubers grown in unamended poor soil should be discarded and replaced annually. Tubers should be planted 2 inches deep and 18 inches apart with growing points facing upward.