Spotted Calla Lily
zantedeschia albomaculata
Also known as: ["Spotted Arum Lily","White-spotted Calla Lily"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with distinctive white-spotted leaves and elegant, funnel-shaped flowers (spathes) that are typically yellow or greenish-yellow.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Zantedeschia |
| Botanical Name: | Zantedeschia albomaculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust for plant size.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes.
- Cut stems just below a node.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can aid root development.
Timeline
Rhizomes may sprout in 2–4 weeks; cuttings root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems at the base; trim leaves with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape plant as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too deep to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for tuber growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing, wilting, or browning; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; tubers can rot if soil freezes.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Zantedeschia albomaculata. Ingestion can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, potentially leading to systemic issues if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Zantedeschia albomaculata can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe distress, depending on the amount consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicZantedeschia albomaculata contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The rhizomes are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Zantedeschia albomaculata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on climate; in hotter regions, partial shade is recommended.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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