Not Geraniums, Not Petunias: The Annual Flower That's Great For Your Window Boxes

When you're planning what plants to grow for a bold window box display, you may be drawn to the classic options, those bright blooms like geraniums and petunias. However, those aren't your only options. Instead, you can also plant this annual flower that thrives in containers while offering unique foliage and small flowers that provide a pop of color.

Although they're often treated as annuals, the tropical plants in the genus Caladium are actually perennial. However, they have a very limited range of USDA growing zones, so if they're being incorporated in landscaping and window boxes, you're more likely to encounter them growing as annuals or indoors as a popular houseplant. Caladiums thrive when growing in containers, as long as you choose a window box that supports their growth. And, because they tolerate shade, they're often the perfect choice for growing near structures. With the right care, you may be able to experience these plants' rare blooms, but even if you don't, their vibrant foliage pairs well with other flowers for a display that's hard to miss.

When choosing the best flowers for window boxes, one thing you may want to consider is maintenance. After all, depending on the location of your window box, they may not always be accessible. Fortunately, caladiums are considered to be low-maintenance plants, making them a top contender for window boxes.

Before diving into the general care requirements for caladiums, it's important to understand their container-growing needs. After all, while window boxes may not be a raised garden bed or pot, they're still a container, and caladiums can be a bit particular about their needs. When choosing the right window box for your caladiums, size plays a large role. They need ample space for their roots to grow, so it's important to choose a box that provides enough room without overcrowding the plants. Drainage holes are also non-negotiable; caladiums love soil that's consistently moist, but good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogged conditions. Aside from this, they hold up well to a variety of container materials, giving you more flexibility when choosing a window box.

With the right container squared away, you'll need to decide what window to display your caladiums on — which comes down to sunlight requirements. Fortunately, partial shade is a reliable option for most caladiums. All caladium species can tolerate partial shade conditions, making them perfect for windows not facing south. However, there are also some varieties that tend to tolerate higher amounts of sunlight better, which you may prefer if you're trying to add color to a south-facing window on your home.