Zantedeschia aethiopica are commonly known as calla lilies and are technically not true lilies. They are native to South Africa and are members of the arum (Jack-in-the-pulpit) family. The large, stark white bloom surrounds a yellow spadix and grows atop a tall, leafless stalk that is prized in cut flower arrangements.
About this Variety
Calla aethiopica typically grows into huge clumps and forms very large, arrowhead-shaped leaves. The blooms are sometimes followed by orange, berry-like fruits.
Highlights
- Great for rain gardens and moist areas; can grow in 6-12" of water
- Showy blooms
- Grows well in containers indoors or out
- Excellent for cut flowers
- Beneficial to pollinators; attracts bees, butterflies and hummingbirds
Exposure:
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Blooms:
Spring; 10-16 weeks after planting
Height:
Grows 24-36" tall
Spacing/Depth:
Plant 12-18" apart, 3-4" deep
USDA Zones:
Grow as Perennial in zones 8-10. Grow as Annual elsewhere.
Growing Instructions
Plant in the fall, before the first frost hardens the soil. Dig a hole to the required depth. Place bulb in hole, pointed side up. Cover with soil and water thoroughly. Mulch in extreme climates.
For container planting, bury the bulb three times as deep as the bulb is wide. In zones 6 and below, you will need to protect your bulb containers. Place them near the foundation of the house or other structure. In zones 3-5, place the container in an unheated garage or shed.
After blooming, leave the bulbs in place so plants can clump or reseed. Divide only when containers or planting spaces become too crowded. Propagate in the fall by division after they have been chilled for four weeks in a moist medium.
Care Tip
Zantedeschia aethiopica grows best in moist, marshy areas. They can be grown as a water plant.