Calla Lily
zantedeschia aethiopica
Also known as: ["Arum Lily","White Arum Lily","Trumpet Lily"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to southern Africa, known for its large, arrow-shaped leaves and elegant white spathes.
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 aethiopica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter and sand/perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequent during flowering periods.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in filtered light outdoors; indoors, keep near a bright window but out of direct rays.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid intense midday sun; adjust placement with seasons.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for aroids; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid drafts; protect from extreme heat/cold; adjust care with seasons.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings (less common).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with healthy growth.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Optional for rhizome division; recommended for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Rhizomes may sprout within weeks; stem cuttings take 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizomes have visible growth points; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems at the base; trim leaves cleanly without damaging healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to maintain appearance and redirect energy to new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged foliage; sanitize tools; prune cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for larger clumps.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in extreme heat; stunted growth in cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may enter dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; protect from frost; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade; increase watering; improve air circulation; mist foliage sparingly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormancy.
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 aethiopica. Ingestion can cause severe oral and esophageal irritation, leading to significant discomfort and potential respiratory distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Zantedeschia aethiopica can lead to severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to significant distress, depending on the amount consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicZantedeschia aethiopica 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 aethiopica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Zantedeschia aethiopica?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Zantedeschia aethiopica require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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