Pink Calla Lily
zantedeschia rehmannii
Also known as: ["Pink Calla","Pink Arum Lily"]
Overview
A striking herbaceous perennial with elegant, pink spathe flowers and arrow-shaped leaves, native to Southern Africa.
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 rehmannii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor 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; can use a cactus or succulent mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; remove dead or damaged foliage promptly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense 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; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage, avoid heavy clay soils, ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes, protect from drafts, adjust watering for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn, fertilize during active growth, stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings with a leaf node.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy rhizome or stem, prepare medium, plant cutting/rhizome, maintain humidity, monitor growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, mature plant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools, keep medium moist, provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowing or dead leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks to the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged foliage, sanitize tools, prune carefully, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger or 2–3 cm wider than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the rhizome fills the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
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, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot; increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure good drainage, protect from drafts, reduce watering in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, soil may dry out too quickly, increasing water needs.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Zantedeschia rehmannii. Ingestion can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, with potential for systemic effects if large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Zantedeschia rehmannii can lead to oral irritation, excessive drooling, and gastrointestinal distress due to calcium oxalate crystals. Severe cases may involve respiratory distress if swelling occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicZantedeschia rehmannii 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 rehmannii 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 it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, with protection from intense afternoon sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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