Zantedeschia albomaculata

Spotted Calla Lily

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Taxonomy

Description

Zantedeschia albomaculata, the spotted calla lily, is a summer-blooming perennial with elegant creamy-white spathes and striking, white-flecked leaves. It’s a reliable garden or container plant that brings a refined, modern look with minimal fuss.

Common Names

Spotted Calla LilyWhite-spotted ArumDotted ArumCalla Lily

Context

nativeRegion

Southern Africa (primarily South Africa and surrounding regions).

usdaZones

8–10 (root-hardy with mulch); grow as annual or lift/storeroom tubers in colder zones.

companionPlants

Agapanthus, Crocosmia, Gladiolus, Dahlias, Salvia, Ornamental grasses, Hosta (in part shade)

culturalUses

Popular as a cut flower for weddings and arrangements; valued in ornamental borders and patio containers.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright light to full sun in cool climates; part sun/bright indirect in hot regions.

WateringKeep evenly moist during active growth; never waterlog. Reduce watering and keep nearly dry during dormancy.

SoilRich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral mix with plenty of organic matter.

FertilizerFeed every 2–4 weeks in growth with a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer; stop during dormancy.

HumidityAverage household humidity (40–60%) is fine; avoid extremely dry air.

TemperatureIdeal 60–75°F (16–24°C). Protect below 50°F (10°C); store dormant tubers cool and dry.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitHerbaceous, tuberous/rhizomatous perennial with upright, clumping growth.

Mature Size12–24 in tall and 12–18 in wide (30–60 cm by 30–45 cm).

Growth RateModerate growth in warm seasons.

BloomingLate spring to summer; creamy to white spathes often with a darker throat; decorative spotted foliage.

DormancyDeciduous; rests after flowering and over winter—keep dry and cool until replanting/rewatering in spring.

Propagation

MethodsDivision of tubers/rhizomes, Offsets, Seed (slow and variable)

DifficultyEasy by division; moderate by seed.

Best SeasonDivide/plant tubers in late winter to early spring; lift and divide after foliage dies back in fall if needed.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningDeadhead spent blooms and remove yellowing leaves; cut back foliage after frost or when fully dormant.

RepottingRepot or refresh container mix annually at the end of dormancy; plant tubers 2–3 in deep with eyes up.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, thrips, spider mites, and snails/slugs; prevent rhizome rot by avoiding soggy soils. Susceptible to bacterial soft rot and fungal rots if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate crystals); can irritate skin and mouth. Keep away from pets and children.

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