Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) is an elegant, sculptural plant grown for its smooth, funnel-shaped white spathes surrounding a bright yellow central spadix, set against glossy, arrow-shaped deep green leaves. Native to southern Africa, it brings a refined, classic look to borders, pots and pond margins, and is a long-lasting, prized cut flower. It loves rich, moist soil and even grows in shallow water or boggy spots, thriving in partial shade in warm Indian conditions. Easy and rewarding, it grows from rhizomes and can flower over a long season where conditions are mild. A timeless garden and floristry favourite.
Specifications
| Family |
Araceae |
| Native region |
Southern Africa |
| Mature height |
60-90 cm |
| Mature spread |
30-45 cm |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Glossy arrow-shaped green |
| Flower colour |
White spathe, yellow spadix |
| Flower season |
Spring to summer |
| Climate zone |
Subtropical to warm temperate |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Partial shade to full sun |
| Watering |
Regular; loves consistently moist soil |
| Soil / mix |
Rich, moist, humus-rich soil |
| Temperature |
15-30 C; protect from frost |
| Humidity |
Prefers moderate to high humidity |
| Fertilizer |
Feed regularly during growth |
| Pruning |
Remove spent blooms and old leaves |
| Repotting |
Repot rhizomes every 1-2 years |
| Propagation |
Division of rhizomes |
| Pests & problems |
Watch aphids and rhizome rot in dry soil |
| Toxicity / safety |
Toxic if eaten (calcium oxalate) |
| Difficulty |
Easy to moderate |
Uses
Grown for elegant borders, container displays and pond margins, and widely valued as a long-lasting, classic cut flower for arrangements.
Growing tips
Give rich, constantly moist soil and partial shade in hot Indian regions; it even tolerates boggy spots. Protect rhizomes from frost in cooler areas.