Plant Profile: Zantedeschia

There are eight species and a variety of cultivars of the 'Calla lily.' These herbaceous, bulbous perennials feature long, arrow-shaped leaves, with some species displaying striking, translucent spots reminiscent of windows. Their distinctive flower heads, which consist of small flowers clustered on a spadix and encased in a spathe, make them excellent choices for cut arrangements. While the spathe is typically white or green, there are cultivars available in shades of yellow, pink, red, and purple. These plants typically bloom from late spring through early summer.

'Calla lilies' thrive in full sun to partial shade (up to 25%) and prefer moist, nutrient-rich soil, flourishing particularly well in bog-like conditions. In colder climates, they may not survive the winter, so it's advisable to apply a thick layer of organic mulch and, if necessary, dig up the corms for winter storage. They also adapt well to container gardening and can be cultivated indoors. When planting, ensure the rhizomes are buried to a depth of 2 inches (5 cm) and spaced 18 inches (45 cm) apart. Propagation can be achieved by separating cormels or by sowing seeds collected in the fall.

As a member of the Arum family, it's important to note that 'Calla lilies' are toxic if ingested.