Calla lily (Zantedeschia albomaculata)

Also known as: White spotted arum, Spotted calla

Calla lilies (Zantedeschia albomaculata) typically bloom from midsummer to early fall. They thrive in moist, well-draining soil and prefer locations with full sun to partial shade. Often planted near water features such as ponds, they are also popular in container gardens and are used in dried flower arrangements. For optimal growth, they need consistent moisture and protection from frost.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Calla lily

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 61 cm

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Calla lily

Scientific Classification of Calla lily

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Water plantains and allies

Family

Arum

Genus

Zantedeschia

Species

Calla lily

Planting and Growing of Calla lily

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Calla lily?

When watering Zantedeschia albomaculata, aim to provide around 500 ml of water each time. The goal is to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened without leaving it waterlogged, allowing excess water to drain away. Watering should mimic a refreshing rain, revitalizing the roots and ensuring moisture reaches the deeper layers of the soil where the roots can access it effectively.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Calla lily? ›

What should I do if my Calla lily is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Calla lily? ›

How to save an overwatered Calla lily? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Calla lily?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sunlight to full shade is optimal, providing a balance that promotes healthy foliage and vibrant blooms. Ideal lighting encourages robust development and a rich display of flowers.

How much sunlight does Zantedeschia albomaculata need? ›

What is the best location for Zantedeschia albomaculata? ›

How to adjust lighting conditions for indoor growth? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Calla lily?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Zantedeschia albomaculata is between 65°F and 77°F. This range allows the plant to thrive, ensuring optimal growth and flowering. Maintaining this temperature range can help prevent stress and promote healthy foliage.

What Soil is Best for Calla lily?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Zantedeschia albomaculata thrives in well-drained loam or sandy loam soils. Such soils prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot, ensuring optimal growth and healthy blooms. The plant benefits immensely from soils enriched with organic matter, like peat. This enriches the soil, retains moisture without being waterlogged, and provides essential nutrients. While the plant can tolerate short dry periods, a consistently moist soil enhances growth, as long as it's not excessively wet, preventing stress on the plant. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Calla lily?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When it comes to fertilizing Zantedeschia albomaculata, balance is key. Use a general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season for optimal results. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to salt build-up and damage the plant. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Calla lily?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by using clean, sharp scissors or secateurs. Identify any dead or yellowing leaves and cut them close to the base of the plant. Be sure to also remove any spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Always cut at an angle to prevent water from resting on the cut surface, which could lead to rot. To maintain a shapely appearance, look for any leaves that are significantly larger or taller than the rest. Trim these back to bring balance to the plant's overall look. Be mindful not to over-trim as this could stress the plant. Always aim to keep the plant looking natural. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Calla lily plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the rhizomes. Each piece should have at least one growing eye or bud. Dust the cut sections with fungicide to prevent rot.

Collect seeds from mature Zantedeschia albomaculata plants. Sow them in prepared trays, covering lightly with soil. Maintain temperatures between 20-25°C and provide consistent moisture to encourage germination over the weeks.

Once seedlings or divided plants have established roots, transplant them into larger pots or garden beds. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and continues to be well-drained to support healthy growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Calla lily plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

The best signals that your Zantedeschia albomaculata needs repotting include roots growing through drainage holes, stunted growth, or soil that dries out quickly after watering. Repotting is ideally done in the Spring or Autumn to minimize stress and encourage healthy new growth.

Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, with ample drainage holes. This ensures adequate space for root expansion and prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot, promoting vigorous and healthy plant development.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture without becoming swampy. A blend of peat, perlite, and sand offers good aeration and prevents compactness, allowing the roots of Zantedeschia albomaculata to breathe, thrive, and avoid suffocating conditions.

More About Repotting Techniques→

Toxicity of Calla lily

Is Calla lily toxic to humans?

The Calla lily is a toxic species that can provoke adverse reactions in individuals who either touch or consume it. The severity of these effects can range from moderate to severe, and, in some instances, they may pose a life-threatening risk. Both the flowers, along with their distinctive yellow spadixes, and most other components of the plant, including the sap it produces, contain toxins. When the sap comes into contact with skin, it usually causes irritation, while ingesting parts of the plant can lead to symptoms such as breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, swelling of the tongue and throat, diarrhea, and vomiting. Should the swelling or stomach discomfort escalate significantly, it could result in fatal consequences. It is advisable to wear gloves when handling this plant.

Is Calla lily toxic to cat?

Calla lily poses a significant toxic threat to cats. If a cat consumes any portion of the calla lily, it faces the danger of poisoning. This often occurs when a cat accidentally eats the plant, potentially confusing it with a non-toxic variety. A cat that has ingested calla lily may display numerous signs of physical distress, which can develop into more serious health complications. Therefore, it is vital to obtain immediate veterinary attention to properly address the cat’s condition and avert lasting health repercussions.

Is Calla lily toxic to dog?

Calla lily is a poisonous plant for dogs, representing a serious health hazard if consumed. Dogs might unintentionally ingest portions of this plant, which can result in toxicity. Every part of the plant is dangerous, indicating that any ingested segment could lead to harmful effects. Signs of poisoning may manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, oral discomfort, and challenges in swallowing. It is essential for dog owners to remain alert and keep their pets away from calla lily. Should ingestion be suspected, seeking prompt veterinary care is vital for the affected dog's safety.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→