Zantedeschia aethiopica
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Calla Lily
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Zantedeschia
Description
Zantedeschia aethiopica, the classic white calla lily, is an elegant, moisture-loving perennial that thrives by ponds or in rich garden beds. Its crisp white spathes and glossy foliage bring a clean, architectural look, blooming generously in cool seasons and staying lush in mild climates.
Common Names
Calla LilyArum LilyWhite CallaCommon Calla
Context
nativeRegion
Southern Africa (South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini)
usdaZones
8–11 (evergreen in frost-free areas; deciduous where frosty)
companionPlants
Hosta, Astilbe, Japanese Iris (Iris ensata), Canna, Ligularia, Ferns, Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus), Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)
culturalUses
Widely used as a cut flower in weddings and memorials; symbolizes purity and elegance. Popular in pondside and cottage gardens.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright indirect light to partial sun; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Indoors, bright filtered light.
WateringKeep evenly moist; never let fully dry. Tolerates boggy soil and shallow water outdoors. Reduce slightly in dormancy.
SoilRich, humusy, moisture-retentive soil; loam or clay-loam with compost. pH 6.0–7.0. Ensure good drainage in containers.
FertilizerFeed monthly in active growth with balanced liquid (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength, or use slow-release at planting. Pause during dormancy.
HumidityAverage household humidity is fine; appreciates higher humidity near water features.
TemperatureIdeal 60–75°F (15–24°C). Hardy outdoors in mild climates; protect below ~25°F (-4°C). Indoors, 55–80°F (13–27°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitRhizomatous, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with erect, glossy leaves and showy white spathes around a yellow spadix.
Mature Size2–3 ft tall and wide (60–90 cm) in garden settings; larger in consistently wet sites.
Growth RateFast in moist, rich soil; moderate in average conditions.
BloomingLate winter to spring; can rebloom or flower nearly year-round in mild, frost-free climates.
DormancyEvergreen in warm zones; deciduous with frost. May go summer-dormant if hot and dry.
Propagation
MethodsDivision, Offsets, Seed
DifficultyEasy by division; moderate and slow from seed.
Best SeasonLate winter to early spring just before new growth; fall division in mild climates.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningDeadhead spent spathes and remove yellowing leaves to prevent rot. Cut back after frost or when foliage declines.
RepottingRepot or refresh soil every 1–2 years after dormancy; divide crowded rhizomes to rejuvenate clumps.
Pests & DiseasesAphids, spider mites, slugs/snails. Watch for bacterial soft rot, rhizome rot from overwatering, Botrytis, and leaf spot.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate); can irritate skin and mucous membranes. Keep away from pets and children.
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