Zantedeschia aethiopica
Zantedeschia aethiopica is the classic white arum lily grown for large white spathes and deep green leaves. It stands out for toughness and for tolerance of wet soils. It performs best in mild coastal or southern climates with cool to warm summers. In colder zones it is lifted in fall or grown in containers. Plants bloom in late spring to early summer in much of North America. In frost free areas bloom can begin in winter. This species also works at pond margins where the crown can sit in shallow mud.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; rhizomatous arum lily
- Height × spread: 24 to 36 in (60 to 90 cm) × 12 to 24 in (30 to 60 cm)
- Bloom window: Late spring to early summer; earlier in frost free areas
- Color & flower form: White spathe with yellow spadix; large funnel form
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Zones 8 to 10; grown as annual or container in colder zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Unknown, unknown, South Africa
- Cut‑flower notes: Sturdy stems; typical vase life 7 to 10 days in clean water
- Pet safety: Avoid
How it differs
- Earlier bloom than many colored callas in North America.
- Larger white spathes and taller stems.
- Handles saturated soils and shallow water at pond edges.
- Rhizomatous and evergreen in mild climates.
Strengths
- Tolerates wet or boggy sites.
- Reliable bloom with large spathes.
- Good performance in part shade.
- Useful and long lasting as a cut.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to part shade; give afternoon shade in hot zones.
- Soil: rich and moisture retentive but not stagnant; neutral to slightly acidic; excellent drainage in containers.
- Watering: keep evenly moist during growth; never allow pots to dry out in summer.
- Feeding: apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and give light monthly feeds in active growth.
- Grooming: remove spent spathes and yellowing leaves at the base.
- Overwintering: outside zone 8 lift rhizomes after frost; dry and store at 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C) or overwinter indoors in bright light.
Watch‑outs
- Rhizome rot in poorly drained or stagnant soils.
- Foliage can scorch in hot inland afternoon sun.
- Can spread in very mild winters and may need clump control.
Best uses (tags)
cutting, pond margins, borders, containers, shade tolerant
Provenance note
Native to South Africa and widely naturalized in mild climates.
References
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online: Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Plant Finder: Zantedeschia aethiopica
- UC Davis Postharvest Center – Calla lily handling notes
- ASPCA – Calla lily toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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