There is an important name mix-up here: Betta splendens is the Siamese fighting fish, while Caladium bicolor is a tropical foliage plant. They are unrelated species, and caladium is not suitable for growing submerged in an aquarium. If you are buying plants for a tank or shop display, checking the Latin name can prevent an expensive mistake.

Key facts

• Origin: Caladium bicolor is native to tropical South America.
• Growth rate: Seasonal; growth is most active in warm conditions, followed by a dormant period.
• Light needs: Bright, indirect light suits most cultivated caladiums; tolerance of direct sun varies between cultivars.
• Temperature range: Around 20–30°C during active growth; protect from cold and draughts.
• pH range: Aquarium water pH is not applicable. Use a slightly acidic potting mix rather than aquatic substrate.
• CO2 need: No aquarium CO2 injection is needed; this terrestrial plant takes carbon dioxide from the air.
• Placement in the tank: None. Keep it in a separate pot outside the aquarium, not submerged or planted in the tank bed.

Growing tips

• Choose a pot with drainage holes and a loose, moisture-retentive potting mix. Empty the saucer after watering rather than leaving the pot standing in water.
• During active growth, water when the surface begins to dry, keeping the mix moist but not waterlogged.
• Position it in filtered light, away from harsh afternoon sun that can scorch the leaves.
• When leaves naturally die back into dormancy, reduce watering substantially; do not keep a leafless tuber continuously wet.
• For shop sales, label it clearly as a terrestrial ornamental, not an aquatic plant. Caladium contains irritating calcium oxalate crystals, so keep it away from pets and children that may chew it.

InternetZoo™ is a marketplace where species can be sourced by Latin name from breeders, farms and exporters; confirm whether a listing is for Caladium bicolor or Betta splendens before ordering. For an underwater display, choose a verified aquatic plant instead.

See live Caladium bicolor (Betta splendens) listings on InternetZoo™ — every listing is organised by its Latin name, so you always get the species you asked for.