Everything you Need to Know About Zantedeschia
- Su Whale
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
They are fabulous as cut flowers, everyone knows that, but as an indoor plant, Zantedeschia or Arum/Calla lily, are equally spectacular. Tall and impressive, their stylish arrow shaped leaves and elegant trumpet blooms mark them out as an exclusive, luxury buy.
Native to South America, Zantedeschia are a tropical flower in the Araceae plant group, the same as Anthurium. Getting to know the origin of your plants is always useful, as it gives you and your customer a better understanding of the conditions needed for it to thrive.
Arum lily or Calla? What’s the difference?
Grown from a rhizome or tuber, Zantedeschia are not in fact true lilies. There are two types that florists will be most familiar with; Z. aethiopica otherwise known as Arum lily, and Z. elliottiana which is commonly called Calla lily. The way to distinguish them is by sight, Arums are hardier and taller with large white flowers, while Calla’s are a smaller, tender plant with a wide choice of bright, vibrant colours.
Floristry Tips From Su Whale
Zantedeschia: What you need to know
Height: Up to approximately 60cm.
Skill level: Average.
Longevity: 2-3 years.
Ideal spot in the home: Kitchen or bathroom, away from bright sun and direct heat sources. They can go outside in a sheltered spot in the summer but will need to be protected from hot sunshine and wind.
How to care for Zantedeschia plants
Temperature: Warm. 15-21°C.
Watering: Keep compost moist but not too wet, they will not tolerate drying out, however. Water regularly in spring and summer only.
Humidity: They like high humidity. Stand in a gravel tray and mist every two to three days.
Light: Display away from direct light, they prefer semi-shade.
Feed: Feed with every two weeks when in flower.
Winter Care
The plant will die back in autumn, once this occurs, overwinter in a frost free place, repotting if necessary. Water just enough to stop the rhizome drying out completely. Resume watering and feeding in early spring.
Troubleshooting
Soft, wilting leaves is an indication that the soil is too dry. Reintroduce watering gradually.
Susceptible to aphids and red spider mite if humidity levels are not maintained.
Su Whale is a florist and freelance writer with over Thirty years' experience in the floristry industry. She is the author and publisher of three best-selling books: Cut Flowers, 4th edition (2020) Cut Foliage, 2nd Edition, (2021) and Houseplants (2019), all bookshelf essentials for the professional florist.
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