Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)

Also known as: Altar lily

Zantedeschia, commonly known as the calla lily, is a popular ornamental plant that has earned the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Noteworthy cultivars of this plant include 'Crowborough', 'Green Goddess', 'Pink Mist', and 'Red Desire'. These cultivars are favored for use as cut flowers and thrive as rhizomatous perennials in warm climates.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Calla lily

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

40 cm to 1 m

Spread

60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 mm to 7 mm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Calla lily

Quickly Identify Calla lily

Large arrow-shaped leaves, up to 18 inches long, with smooth texture and wavy margins.

Showy white spathes with a yellow spadix, blooms emit light fragrance from June to July.

Vibrant yellow-orange spherical berries, glossy texture, tightly clustered in dense aggregation.

Thick horizontal rhizome, up to 1.5 inches in diameter, light brown with rough surface.

Stemless plant with fleshy rhizome producing roots and shoots for growth and regeneration.

Scientific Classification of Calla lily

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Water plantains and allies

Family

Arum

Genus

Zantedeschia

Species

Calla lily

Planting and Growing of Calla lily

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Calla lily?

When watering Zantedeschia aethiopica, ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Generally, apply around 500ml of water, which should be enough to moisten the soil to a depth of about 2 to 3 inches. Always check the top inch of soil; it should be moist but not soggy. This plant thrives in humid conditions, so ensure you maintain stable moisture levels without causing root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Calla lily? ›

What should I do if my Calla lily is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Calla lily? ›

How to save an overwatered Calla lily? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Calla lily?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun exposure for 4-6 hours ensures Zantedeschia aethiopica thrives. This balance allows for proper photosynthesis, promoting healthy growth and a rich green hue in leaves.

What is the ideal lighting environment for Zantedeschia aethiopica? ›

How can I ensure Zantedeschia aethiopica receives enough light? ›

What benefits does optimal lighting bring to Zantedeschia aethiopica? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Calla lily?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Zantedeschia aethiopica thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. These conditions mimic its natural habitat, promoting optimal photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. Maintaining consistent temperatures within this range helps ensure strong stem growth and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Calla lily?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Zantedeschia aethiopica thrives in well-drained soil, preventing waterlogging that can lead to root rot. This requirement ensures the roots have access to necessary oxygen, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. It prefers soil that holds moisture adequately but doesn't stay overly saturated. The balance of moisture retention supports sustained hydration without drowning the plant, encouraging lush foliage and strong stems. Zantedeschia aethiopica benefits from soil enriched with organic matter. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure enhances soil fertility, providing essential nutrients that contribute to robust flowering and overall plant vigor. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Calla lily?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Zantedeschia aethiopica, it's important to avoid over-fertilizing. Use half the recommended strength of a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer. When using slow-release granules, apply 1 to 2 teaspoons per pot or area, depending on the size and condition of the plant. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Calla lily?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Start by visually inspecting the plant for any dead or yellowing leaves. Removing these will help the plant redirect its energy to healthier growth. Cut these leaves at the base using your pruners. Once the flowers start to fade, cut the stems back to the base of the plant. This encourages more blooms and prevents the plant from expending energy on dying flowers. Maintain a neat and compact form by trimming any wayward or overgrown stems. Make your cuts just above a leaf or stem node to enhance branching and fullness. Ensure all pruned leaves and stems are cleared away from around the plant to prevent pest infestations or fungal disease. A tidy area contributes to a healthier plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Calla lily plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early spring

Before division, water the Zantedeschia aethiopica thoroughly. This helps in easing the removal of the plant from the soil and reduces stress on the plant during propagation.

Carefully dig up the plant and gently shake off excess soil. Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes ensuring each section has at least one growing point and a set of healthy roots.

Plant each division at the same depth it was growing previously. Water the new plants generously and place them in a location with similar growing conditions to the mother plant.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Calla lily plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Look for signs such as roots protruding from the drainage holes, slowed growth, or the plant becoming top-heavy. These indicate that it's time to repot your Zantedeschia aethiopica, typically during its active growth period in spring.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A slightly larger pot provides space for root expansion and stability for your plant.

Opt for a rich, well-drained loamy soil. This type of soil ensures that the plant has access to essential nutrients while preventing root rot by allowing excess water to drain away efficiently.

More About Repotting Techniques→

Toxicity of Calla lily

Is Calla lily toxic to humans?

Every part of the calla lily is poisonous to humans when ingested in its raw form. The toxic calcium oxalate present in this plant can cause symptoms such as discomfort, irritation, and swelling in the oral cavity and throat, along with nausea, excessive drooling, imbalances in electrolytes, and dehydration. In the most critical instances, poisoning from calla lilies can result in a coma, abnormal heart rhythms, and potentially fatal outcomes. Accidental ingestion is most commonly seen in children, as these plants are often grown indoors or in outdoor gardens.

Is Calla lily toxic to cat?

Masticating any portion of the calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) will result in the release of moderately harmful calcium oxalate crystals, with the bulb being particularly dangerous. These crystals can cause irritation in the mouth, leading to pain and swelling. Consumption of the plant may induce vomiting or diarrhea. In some instances, the airway may become swollen, making it challenging for the cat to breathe. In these situations, veterinary assistance could be required.

Is Calla lily toxic to dog?

The calla lily poses a moderate toxicity risk to dogs. The plant contains sharp crystals of calcium oxalate in its sap, which circulates throughout all its components. Ingesting any part of the plant may lead to symptoms such as vomiting, breathing difficulties, excessive drooling, and foam in the mouth. While it is generally not lethal, it is crucial to reach out to your veterinarian if you believe your dog has ingested or nibbled on any section of this plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→