Zantedeschia
( zan - ted - DESH - ee - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationZantedeschia, or Calla Lily, is a genus of flowering plants that grow from rhizome. Exposure and water needs vary depending on the species grown. They are native to South Africa, and form clumps of green foliage, sometimes marked with white. The showy part of this flower is actually the bract (called a spathe), which surrounds the central spike, or spadix, of true flowers.
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Zantedeschia Species and Varietals
Calla Lily grows well in zones 5, 6, 8, 9, 12-24, H1 and H2. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Zantedeschia aethiopica (Common Calla) This plant reaches 2-4 feet tall and has green foliage and white to cream spathes that appear in springtime. They are held just above the foliage. Varieties include 'Green Goddess' (white spathes that are tipped green), 'Hercules' (large spathes open flat and recurve), and 'Childsiana' (a compact variety that reaches just a foot tall). |
Caring for Zantedeschia
Most Callas die to the ground in fall and reappear the following springtime, and need regular water during their growth and blooming periods, and less during their dormancy. Set rhizomes 2 inches deep and 8-12 inches apart, in organically-rich well-draining soil. They prefer full sun. Common Calla is a little different, thriving in moist or boggy conditions and preferring light shade. They can be planted from fall through spring, set 4 inches deep and 1 foot apart. These Callas need year-round moisture for best performance, and do not like to be dug up.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 658 - 659, Zantedeschia
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