Zantedeschia pentlandii
Zantedeschia pentlandii is a South African yellow arum with a lemon to chrome yellow spathe and a dark blotch at the throat. It stands out for vivid color and for thriving in full sun. Plants perform best in warm and dry summer regions with free draining soils. It is typically grown in containers or lifted for storage in most of North America. Bloom usually occurs in early to midsummer. Leaves are green and often dotted which contrasts with the flowers.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; tuberous calla lily
- Height × spread: 16 to 24 in (40 to 60 cm) × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: Early summer to midsummer
- Color & flower form: Lemon to bright yellow spathe with a purple basal blotch; funnel form
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Zones 8 to 10; grown as annual or lifted in colder zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Unknown, unknown, South Africa
- Cut‑flower notes: Medium stems; typical vase life 7 to 10 days
- Pet safety: Avoid
How it differs
- Needs full sun for best flowering.
- Yellow spathe often shows a contrasting purple throat.
- Less tolerant of wet soils than white arum forms.
- Compact stature suits pots and rock garden edges.
Strengths
- Bright color reads well at distance.
- Performs in sunny and well drained sites.
- Useful in containers and as a cut.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun; provide light afternoon shade only in very hot regions.
- Soil: gritty and well drained mixes; avoid heavy clay and standing water.
- Watering: water regularly in growth but let the top of the mix dry slightly between waterings.
- Feeding: light monthly fertilizer during active growth.
- Grooming: remove spent spathes and tidy leaves.
- Overwintering: lift and store dry at 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C) outside zone 8 to 10.
Watch‑outs
- Soft rot in cold and wet soils; avoid overwatering.
- Frost sensitive; lift and store before freezes.
- Purchase nursery propagated plants to avoid pressure on wild populations.
Best uses (tags)
containers, cutting, sunny borders, rock garden
Provenance note
Endemic to South Africa. The species is documented by SANBI and World Flora Online.
References
- SANBI — Red List: Zantedeschia pentlandii
- NC State Extension — Zantedeschia pentlandii
- World Flora Online — Zantedeschia pentlandii
- ASPCA — Calla lily toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us