Researchers at the University of Florida have introduced three new caladium varieties. These are named ‘Pinky Swear,’ ‘Wonderland,’ and ‘Salsa.’ ‘Pinky Swear’ and ‘Salsa’ are now available for sale, with ‘Wonderland’ expected to be ready next year. Dot Bates and her daughter, Terri Bates, from Bates Sons & Daughters, a caladium selling company, named these new varieties.
These new varieties were developed near the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC). Zhanao Deng, a plant breeder and professor, led the project. Deng’s research aids Florida growers, who are the largest producers of caladium tubers worldwide. These tubers are mainly used for potted plants or landscaping.
Each new variety has distinct features. ‘Salsa’ is a red caladium with a bright red center and green edges. ‘Pinky Swear’ is a pink caladium with bright pink veins and light pink or green blotches. ‘Wonderland’ is compact with several creamy, white leaves and numerous red-to-burgundy spots.
Deng is collaborating with Bob Hartman of Classic Caladiums LLC to explore the potential for year-round caladium growth. If successful, Florida growers could supply a global market and provide plants during the U.S. winter months. Deng suggests that ‘Wonderland’ might be suitable for year-round growth due to its resistance to a disease that affects tuber storage.