Zantedeschia aethiopica, Calla aethiopica

Zantedeschia aethiopica is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant, evergreen where rainfall and temperatures are adequate, deciduous where there is a dry season.

Commonly called calla lilies, these are not true lilies, but are arum (Jack-in-the-pulpit) family members. They are stemless plants whose flowers and leaves rise directly from rhizomes. They typically grow in clumps to 24-36" tall and feature large arrowhead-shaped (sagittate) leaves and extremely showy flowers consisting of a yellow finger-like spadix surrounded by a bright white spathe borne atop a leafless stalk. Commercially grown as a very popular cut flower.

Winter hardy to USDA Zone 8, and may survive some Zone 7 winters with protection. Best in moist soils with full sun to part shade. Lift rhizomes in fall and store in a damp medium such as peat or immediately replant in containers to overwinter as a houseplant. Calla lilies may be planted in mud at the edge of ponds or water gardens.

May also be grown year-round in containers that must be brought indoors in winter before first frost. Overwintering containers placed near a window with bright indirect light can make attractive houseplants.

Similar plants:

• Zantedeschia sp. (Arum Lily, Calla Lily)
• Arum palaestinum, Arum sanctum, Calla sancta (Black Calla Lily)