Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
Dazzle with the Zantedeschia aethiopica, a stunning Calla lily, boasting showy white spathes adaptable to water gardens or containers.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) is highly valued by gardeners for its strikingly elegant, funnel-shaped white spathes that emerge above lush, arrowhead-shaped foliage. Native to various habitats in Southern Africa, this rhizomatous perennial brings a tropical sophistication to temperate gardens. While often mistaken for true lilies, Zantedeschia aethiopica is a distinguished member of the Arum family prized both as a stunning feature plant and an exceptional choice for floral arrangements.
This species thrives where moisture is abundant, making it versatile enough for borders, containers, or even planted directly in pond margins. Understanding the cultural quirks of Zantedeschia aethiopica, particularly its overwintering requirements in colder climates, is key to enjoying its beauty year after year. Gardeners appreciate the robust growth pattern and the relatively long bloom period, which helps brighten early summer landscapes.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Araceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Native Range: Southern Africa
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8-10
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 2-3 ft
- Spread: 1.5-2 ft
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Bloom Description: White spathe with yellow spadix
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium to wet
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Plant Calla lily rhizomes in spring once the danger of frost has passed, ensuring they are set 3–4 inches deep and spaced approximately 12–18 inches apart. They perform best in reliably moist soils, succeeding in locations receiving full sun, though dappled or afternoon shade is often preferred in hotter regions, such as noted for the St. Louis area. Zantedeschia aethiopica is winter hardy down to Zone 8, but gardeners in Zone 7 should provide winter protection for the rhizomes.
Watering is critical; maintain a medium to wet environment. For those utilizing this plant in low-lying areas or rain gardens, Calla lilies can be successfully planted directly in the mud at pond edges, submerged under as much as 12 inches of water. This immersion can even help protect the rhizomes from harsh winter freezes if the water body does not freeze solid to the bottom.
For overwintering outside of USDA Zones 8–10, lift the rhizomes in the fall before the first frost. Store them in a cool, dark place packed in a damp medium like peat moss. Alternatively, container-grown specimens can be dried back slightly and brought indoors to serve as attractive houseplants near a bright, indirect light source during winter months.
Landscape Uses
The versatility of the Calla lily allows it to fit into numerous garden designs. They excel when used along the edges of water features, such as ponds or constructed water gardens, where their moisture needs are naturally met. Their strong vertical accent also makes them ideal for pairing with finer textured perennials in mixed borders or highly visible containers.
For container gardening, ensure the potting mix retains moisture while still draining adequately to prevent sogginess which can lead to issues. These plants pair well visually with marsh-loving marginals or contrasting foliage plants that enjoy similar, moist conditions. Whether used as temporary annuals in cold regions or as reliable perennials, Zantedeschia aethiopica provides an undeniable focal point wherever planted.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Cut
Noteworthy Characteristics
The rhizomatous perennial Zantedeschia aethiopica, known widely as the Calla lily, is native to Southern Africa where it adapts to environments ranging from coastal marshes to grasslands. Mature specimens stand 2–3 feet tall, featuring large, sagittate leaves and impressive flowering stalks arising from fleshy underground rhizomes. The highly recognizable blossom consists of a bright white, funnel-shaped spathe surrounding a 3-inch-long yellow spadix, confirming its reputation as a commercially grown and beloved cut flower.
Tolerances
Potential Problems
The primary concern when cultivating Calla lily is managing soil moisture to avoid rhizome rot, which occurs if the growing medium becomes waterlogged and anaerobic, particularly during cooler periods or storage. Ensure that even when kept moist, excess standing water drains away from the crown if grown in standard garden soil rather than a pond edge. Pests such as Japanese beetles may occasionally target the foliage and the attractive white flowers, requiring manual removal or targeted insecticide treatment if infestations become severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Calla lily suitable for?
Zantedeschia aethiopica is generally hardy in USDA Zones 8 through 10. In Zone 7, protection over winter, such as mulching heavily or lifting the rhizomes, is usually necessary for perennial survival.
How large does Calla lily grow?
This herbaceous perennial typically reaches a mature height between 2 and 3 feet tall, with a spread ranging from 1.5 to 2 feet wide.
When does Calla lily bloom?
The flowering period for Zantedeschia aethiopica is usually from June into July, displaying its characteristic white spathe surrounding a yellow spadix.
What sun exposure does Calla lily need?
This plant prefers a location receiving full sun, though it tolerates and sometimes benefits from partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the afternoon.
Conclusion
The architectural foliage and elegant white blooms ensure that the Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) remains a staple for adding drama to summer landscapes, especially in wet or pond-adjacent locations. Its adaptability, ranging from water garden marginal to overwintered houseplant, proves its value. Before planting, confirm your local hardiness zone and prepare your soil to remain moist throughout the growing season for the best display.
Companion Planting
When integrating Zantedeschia aethiopica into a sunny border, select companions that appreciate similar moisture levels without being overly aggressive. Plants like Astilbe, Caltha (Marsh Marigold), or Siberian Iris thrive in consistently damp conditions and offer varied textures to contrast with the smooth, bold leaves of the Calla lily. For containers, utilize boggy soil mixes and pair them with other moisture-loving annuals or marginal aquatic plants for a cohesive look.
Design Ideas for Water Features
Utilizing Calla lily in water features capitalizes on its tolerance for wet feet. Plant the rhizomes directly into the mud or specialized aquatic soil baskets sunk near the pond edge, ensuring the foliage is above the waterline while the roots are submerged. This placement creates a stunning, naturalized transition between terrestrial plantings and open water bodies. The white flowers provide excellent visual contrast against deep blue water or darker green aquatic foliage.
