Zantedeschia elliottiana
Zantedeschia elliottiana is the golden calla lily known for bright yellow spathes and spotted leaves. It stands out for vivid color and compact growth. Plants perform best in warm summer regions and in containers that warm quickly in spring. It is commonly grown as a seasonal bulb in most of North America. Bloom usually arrives from early summer to midsummer. Leaves carry translucent white speckles that add interest when plants are not in bloom.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; tuberous calla lily
- Height × spread: 20 to 35 in (50 to 90 cm) × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: Early summer to midsummer
- Color & flower form: Golden yellow spathe with yellow spadix; funnel form; leaves spotted
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: Zones 8 to 10; grown as annual or lifted in colder zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Unknown, unknown, origin uncertain
- Cut‑flower notes: Medium to sturdy stems; typical vase life 7 to 10 days
- Pet safety: Avoid
How it differs
- Summer blooming rather than late spring in many regions.
- Distinct golden yellow spathes with spotted foliage.
- Tuberous bulbs prefer free draining soils and do not suit pond margins.
- More compact than white arum forms.
Strengths
- Strong color impact in beds and pots.
- Produces multiple stems in warm summers.
- Useful for cutting when the spadix is visible.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun to light afternoon shade in hot areas.
- Soil: loose and organic and well drained; avoid waterlogging.
- Watering: keep evenly moist in active growth; allow the top inch to dry slightly between waterings in pots.
- Feeding: give light monthly fertilizer during growth.
- Grooming: remove spent spathes; keep foliage until it yellows naturally.
- Overwintering: dig and store dry at 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C) outside zone 8.
Watch‑outs
- Soft rot risk if overwatered or soils stay cold and wet.
- Frost sensitive; lift tubers before the first freeze.
- Cool spring soils can delay or reduce flowering.
Best uses (tags)
containers, cutting, borders, warm patios
Provenance note
Recognized in cultivation; listed by the RHS and World Flora Online with uncertain wild origin in southern Africa.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Zantedeschia elliottiana
- World Flora Online – Zantedeschia elliottiana
- SANBI – Red List: Zantedeschia elliottiana
- ASPCA – Calla lily toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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