Caladium 'Freida Hemple'
Best shade-loving foliage for gardeners seeking vibrant, low-maintenance tropical color.
Caladium 'Freida Hemple' showcases radiant foliage with molten red hearts beautifully framed by wide green margins. This vigorous and carefree plant thrives as a summer border annual or a stunning container specimen. Caladiums are tropical plants prized for their foliage, blending deep greens, intense reds, and pinks. To perform best, they require heat, ample moisture, and regular feeding. They are best suited for part shade to full shade locations, as afternoon sun can scorch their delicate leaves. Tubers can be lifted and stored indoors in colder climates.
$15.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1768
/ 2693
#1768 in Plants
Price vs Category Average
-65%
Below average
Ships as
4
/ " PLASTIC POT
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a bold, ruby-red focal point for shade
- Container gardeners wanting a tidy, upright plant for pots
- Busy gardeners desiring low-maintenance, season-long vibrant color
Who should skip it
- Gardeners living in colder climates avoiding seasonal storage chores
- People in arid climates unable to provide consistent humidity
- Pet owners or families with small children needing non-toxic plants
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Molten red centers create a high-contrast focal point for any garden.
Growth Vigor
Reliable, carefree development makes this an excellent choice for novice gardeners.
Container Versatility
Compact size and striking colors make it perfect for patio pots.
Shade Tolerance
Thrives in low-light areas where many other flowering plants struggle.
Climate Flexibility
Requires lifting tubers in colder regions to ensure seasonal survival.
Maintenance Ease
Consistent moisture and feeding are the only keys to lush foliage.
Key Specs
Ships as
4" PLASTIC POT
Mature Height
12-18 inches
Spacing
12 inches
Hardiness Zone
Annual (Perennial in Zone 10)
Exposure
Part Shade to Shade
Requires soil temperatures of 60°F for outdoor planting
Features
- Vigorous and carefree growth habit
- Radiant foliage with molten red hearts and green margins
- Thrives in heat and ample moisture
- Ideal for use in containers or summer borders
- Tubers can be dug and stored indoors in colder climates
- Perennial in Zone 10
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly celebrate the striking design of the Caladium 'Freida Hemple,' noting the vibrant, deep red centers and lush green margins that provide dramatic visual impact. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the bulbs received, reporting high reliability and successful sprouting, which is crucial for premium ornamental plants. While the initial investment is higher, the resulting robust foliage and stunning color payoff justify the perceived value, making this a highly recommended choice for adding bold texture to shaded areas.
Know before you buy
No, this variety prefers part shade to full shade. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the delicate foliage, so it is best to place it in a spot that receives filtered light.
Yes, 'Freida Hemple' is an excellent choice for containers. Its compact height of 12–18 inches makes it well-suited for pots on a porch or patio.
Caladiums are tropical plants that need warmth to thrive. You should wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F before planting them outside.
Not necessarily. If you live in a climate colder than Zone 10, you can dig up the tubers in the fall, store them in a cool, dry place indoors, and replant them the following spring.
For the best visual impact and healthy growth, space your Caladiums 12 inches apart.
To keep the foliage looking its best, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide regular feedings throughout the growing season.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$16