Caladium capital of the world
The Caladium Capital of the World
Holland has its tulips. Japan has its blooming cherry trees. And Florida has its caladiums.
Sometimes called Angel Wings or Heart of Jesus, caladiums are spade-shaped, multi-colored perennials that can be grown inside or out throughout much of the country. They thrive in shade, although some varieties can handle sun, and own a deep-rooted Florida history.
Photo: Thomas Becker
Hundreds of varieties of caladiums are available for sale at the festival.
In 1976, the University of Florida started its retain caladium-breeding program in Bradenton, which is now the only major effort of its kind in the world. In nearby Lake Placid, farmers grow 98 percent of the world’s caladium tubers. Trial fields cover more than 1,500 acres.
“The fields are miles and miles of colorful stripes planted so precise, they peer like colors drawn in the dirt,” says Eileen May, executive director of Lake Placid’s chamber of commerce. “They are so beautiful it amazes me. As far as you can notice are acres of greens and reds and maroons.”
Photo: Thomas Becker
A field of caladiums in Lake Placid, Florida. Visitors can view the 1,500 acres by bus.
Which is why it’s no su
Every summer, when the caladium fields burst into color, the hushed charm of Lake Placid, Florida, comes alive in the most unforgettable way. Known as the “Caladium Capital of the World,” Lake Placid harvests over 1,200 acres of the flowering plant annually, cultivating approximately 90% of the world’s caladium bulbs. With credentials like that, it seems only fitting to celebrate with one of the most beloved events in the region—the Lake Placid Caladium Festival.
When and Where to Be
When is the Caladium Festival, you ask? Mark your calendars for July 25–27, 2025!
The festivities will take place at Stuart Park on Friday and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM and continue on Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Started in 1990 as a celebration of the area’s growing caladium industry, the festival has evolved from humble beginnings into a full-fledged family tradition. Visitors come for the flowering plant, of course, but they stay for the hometown hospitality, local vendors, toe-tappin’ music, and all the family fun you can handle in one weekend.
Activities for All Ages
So what’s all this fun we’re talking about? With a little something for everyone, yo
Summer in Central Florida comes alive once again as Lake Placid, known far and wide as the Caladium Capital of the World, hosts the 34th annual Caladium Festival from July 25-27.
With its ideal growing conditions and hundreds of acres of commercial caladium farms, this small but vibrant town supplies more than 90% of the world’s caladium bulbs.
“The Caladium Festival is a proud tradition for our community,” said Jennifer Bush, executive director of the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce. “Each year we welcome visitors to discover not only the breathtaking caladium fields, but the stories and passion behind the people who grow them.”
Guests can experience guided caladium field bus tours with caladium growers coming onboard to share firsthand knowledge about planting, harvesting, and the science behind these colorful heart-shaped plants. These tours will also explore decorated neighborhoods and the scenic Lake Placid area.
The Caladium Festival remains free to attend and offers a weekend full of family-friendly activities. Alongside the botanical attractions, the event features a car and bike show, live music, a floral and art competition, local vendors,
Still Rooted: The State of Caladium Farming in Lake Placid, Florida
By Katrina Salokar | East Lee County News
Lake Placid, Florida—once the undisputed “Caladium Capital of the World”—still proudly honors its colorful legacy. Tucked in Highlands County, this small town once produced 95% of the world’s caladium bulbs. While the industry has shrunk, its roots run profound, sustained by resilience, family tradition, and cautious optimism.
A Legacy in Bloom
From a peak of over 30 farms, only seven stay today. Loss of generational interest, rising land costs, and challenge from other agricultural ventures own reshaped the landscape. Yet, a determined few continue to cultivate caladiums in the region’s fertile muck soil, keeping the tradition alive.
Each summer, the town celebrates its floral identity at the Caladium Festival, which this year takes place July 25th through 27th. The festival features blooming fields, historic tours, craft vendors, and food trucks—all honoring the heritage of the farmers who brought color to the planet, one heart-shaped leaf at a time.
A Family Affair
Among the growers keeping this legacy alive is Lake Country Farms, Inc., op
Welcome to Caladiums Florida, in Lake Placid, Florida
The Caladium Capital of the World.
Caladiums add color and beauty to all of your creative planting beds and gardens. Enhance sidewalks and driveways with a splash of reds, pinks, or whites. Maybe a colorful mixed batch of our very best caladium bulbs to brighten a shady spot in your yard. Caladiums are easy to plant, easy to care for, easy to store. We provide you with all the growing information you need to guarantee the best possible results.
Browse our online store. You'll find colors, sizes, and some specials(button on left). Chose a variety (button on the left), view a color image, bulb and plant sizes, and sun tolerance. Our caladium bulbs are suitable for containers and garden beds.
Our customer service is second to none. We take great pride in our caladium bulbs and elephant ear bulbs. BULBS DIRECT FROM THE GROWER is the only way to know you're getting quality and personal service!
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We offer over 40 varieties of caladium bulbs!
Caladium bulbs are perfect for use in flower beds, planters, bo