Yellow Calla Lily
zantedeschia elliottiana
Also known as: ["Yellow Calla","Golden Calla Lily"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, known for its vibrant yellow spathes and arrow-shaped leaves.
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 elliottiana |
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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; major pruning in late winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
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 light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; provide dappled light outdoors.
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
moist, well-draining potting mix with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage, avoid heavy clay soils, ensure pH is balanced.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); dormant in winter below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent temperatures, protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes, cut stems just below a node, plant in medium, keep moist, provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizomes may take 4–6 weeks to sprout; stem cuttings root in 3–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizomes have eyes, use sterile tools, maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flowers at the base, trim yellow leaves, prune stems to shape the plant.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellow leaves to encourage new growth; trim back foliage in late winter before new growth emerges.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves, sanitize tools, prune to shape, remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the rhizomes fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
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 away; 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 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 yellowing, may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure good drainage, reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Zantedeschia elliottiana. 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
ToxicIngestion of Zantedeschia elliottiana by dogs 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 elliottiana 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 elliottiana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Zantedeschia elliottiana?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Zantedeschia elliottiana 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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