Red Caladium can cause irritation or illness if chewed or swallowed. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Irritant: Calcium oxalate crystals and unidentified compounds
Severity: moderate
Symptoms: Burning and swelling of lips, mouth, tongue; also nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur; contact with cell sap can cause skin irritation. Ingestion by livestock or pets may cause death.
The Full Picture
Caladiums grow from tubers. They naturally die back and go completely dormant in winter. Don't throw the pot away; they will return in spring!