Zantedeschia aethiopica or Calla Lily

Zantedeschia, Calla Lily, Arum Lily

Zantedeschia aethiopica: The Elegant Calla Lily

Background: Zantedeschia aethiopica, commonly known as Calla Lily or Arum Lily, belongs to the Araceae family of plants. It is native to South Africa and can be grown both in garden beds and containers. Calla Lily thrives in sunny or partially shaded areas and prefers moist, poorly drained soil. It can even be grown in water gardens with water up to 30 cm deep, using baskets or clay pots.

Characteristics: Zantedeschia aethiopica is a rhizomatous perennial herbaceous plant. It is evergreen in regions with sufficient moisture but deciduous in drier climates. The plant grows up to 90 cm tall and features large, dark green leaves. It produces fragrant white flowers during spring, summer, and fall. Calla Lily is also popular as a cut flower. Propagation is typically done through division, and it is important to be mindful of potential issues with aphids, thrips, as well as fungal or bacterial rots.

Flowers: The flowers of Zantedeschia aethiopica are trumpet-shaped and white. They are borne on long stalks and can reach lengths of up to 6 inches. The flowers emit a delightful fragrance and attract bees and butterflies.

Leaves: The leaves of Zantedeschia aethiopica are long, strap-shaped, and green. They are arranged in a basal rosette.

Interestingly, the flower of Calla Lily is actually a modified leaf called a spathe, which grows on top of a leafless stalk. The actual flowers are the tiny ones found inside the spadix. It is worth noting that while this beautiful flower is highly regarded for its elegance, it is considered a weed in certain parts of South America and can exhibit invasive tendencies. Additionally, the plant is toxic, so it should be kept out of reach of pets and children.

How to grow Zantedeschia aethiopica:

Planting: Zantedeschia aethiopica prefers full sun or partial shade. Plant the bulbs in the spring, burying them 4-6 inches deep and spacing them 6-8 inches apart.

Watering: It is important to water Calla Lily regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilizer: Provide balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and flowering.

Temperature: Zantedeschia aethiopica thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity: This plant prefers high humidity. If the humidity levels in your home are low, consider misting the leaves regularly to provide the desired moisture.

Pests and Diseases: Calla Lily is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. If any pests are detected, promptly treat them with an appropriate insecticide.

Propagation:

  • Seed Propagation: Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix during the spring. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a warm temperature. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
  • Division: Divide the bulbs either in the spring or fall. It is recommended to divide the bulbs every 3-4 years to maintain their vigor and promote healthy growth.

Embracing the beauty of Zantedeschia aethiopica, the elegant Calla Lily, adds a touch of grace to any garden or container. By providing the ideal growing conditions, including appropriate lighting, watering, fertilization, and pest management, you can enjoy the enchanting presence of these trumpet-shaped white flowers.

Zantedeschia, Calla Lily, Arum Lilly,
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Beautiful leaves and flowers of Zantedeschia aethopica, at Kew Gardens border. London, UK
Zantedeschia aethiopica, Calla Lily, Arum Lily
Calla Lily or Zantedeschia aethopica or Arum Lily
Zantedeschia seeds, Zantedeschia aethiopica
If you don’t deadhead the flowers you will see these fruits or seedpods

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