Thomas Tomlinson Caladium Bulbs | Fancy Leaf Tropical Foliage

White Speckles, Red Center — A Refined Shade Garden Classic

Thomas Tomlinson (affectionately known as “Tom Tom”) is a beautifully refined fancy-leaf caladium that lights up any shady spot. Its large, heart-shaped leaves are olive green with white speckles scattered across the surface and a brilliant burst of red at the center that extends outward into the prominent veins — striking, elegant, and full of visual depth. Vigorous and clumping, it grows 16–24 inches tall and is especially stunning in containers on shaded porches and patios.

Plant Highlights

• Leaf type: Fancy leaf — large, heart-shaped
• Colors: Olive green with white speckles and a bright red center extending into prominent veins
• Height: 16–24 inches — vigorous, clumping habit
• Light: Partial shade; ideal for shady garden spots
• USDA Zones: 9–11 (lift tubers in fall in colder zones)
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Great for: Accent planting, mass planting, containers, hanging baskets, shaded porches
• Thrives in: Heat and humidity

How to Plant Caladium Bulbs

Plant tubers eyes upward, 1–1½ inches deep and 8–14 inches apart. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F before planting outdoors. Premium tubers are ready to plant in spring for all-summer performance. For indoor growing, start in a warm, bright room 4–6 weeks before last frost.

Care Tips

• Soil: Moist, well-draining mix with organic content
• Water: Keep consistently moist; avoid waterlogging
• Light: Partial to full shade — a beautifully refined element for shady gardens
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; remove any dieback as needed. No significant pest or disease issues
• Winter storage: In zones below 9, dig tubers in fall and store in a dry, airy place until spring

Thomas Tomlinson is a collector’s-quality caladium — its unique green-and-white speckled leaves with red center make it a standout in any shaded planting or container arrangement.