Botanical Name: Caladium bicolor ‘Moonlight’

Common Name: Fancy-Leaf Caladium

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 9–11); Grown as an Annual Elsewhere

Size: 12–18" Tall × 12–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Clump-Forming Habit

Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Sun (Excellent Sun Tolerance)

Soil: Prefers Moist, Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil

Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture for Best Growth

Bloom Season: Grown for Foliage (Spring through Fall)

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Bright White Leaves with Subtle Green Veins, Strong Sun Tolerance, Clean Color, Early to Mid-Season Growth

Uses: Ideal for Containers, Borders, Mass Plantings, Bright Shade Gardens, and Sun–Shade Transitions

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

See our complete Caladium Plant Guide for more in depth care details.

More About Caladium ‘Moonlight’

Caladium ‘Moonlight’ is a standout fancy-leaf caladium prized for its brilliant white foliage and exceptional tolerance of sun compared to most white caladiums. The large, heart-shaped leaves glow in the garden, reflecting light and instantly brightening both shaded areas and sunnier locations.

Unlike many white caladium varieties that scorch or fade in direct sun, ‘Moonlight’ was selected for improved leaf strength and color stability. Subtle green veining adds definition without distracting from the clean, luminous white background, making it one of the most versatile white caladiums available.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Moonlight’ has been a consistently strong performer in both partial shade and brighter sun exposure. It emerges evenly, fills out nicely, and maintains clean foliage through heat and humidity when given adequate moisture.

We especially appreciate how adaptable it is in design. ‘Moonlight’ works beautifully as a container centerpiece, a mass planting under open tree canopies, or as a contrast plant alongside darker foliage caladiums, coleus, and begonias. Its ability to bridge sun and shade makes it easy to place throughout the landscape.

Caladium ‘Moonlight’ vs. Other Caladiums

Compared to pink and speckled varieties like Carolyn Whorton, Gingerland, and Miss Muffet, Moonlight plays a fundamentally different role in the garden. Rather than drawing attention to itself, it amplifies everything around it, using clean white foliage to brighten shade and sharpen nearby colors. Where speckled caladiums add texture and pink varieties add warmth, Moonlight adds clarity and contrast.

When set beside Tapestry, the contrast is especially clear. Tapestry is intricate and expressive, while Moonlight is restrained and architectural. For designers and gardeners who understand the power of negative space and neutrality, Moonlight is arguably the most important supporting player in this lineup—essential for balance, cohesion, and making stronger colors look even better.