Zantedeschia aethiopica

Zantedeschia aethiopica and Kniphofia

Calla Lily, Arum Lily
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Type: Perennials from Rhizomes
Exposure: Sun / Light Shade
Water: Regular

This handsome native of South Africa forms a clump of shiny, rich green, arrow-shaped leaves that reaches 18in (45cm) high by a foot (30cm) wide. Graceful, fragrant flowers rise on stalks 2ft (60cm) tall in late spring. Actually, the characteristic white or cream flower is really a spathe, or flower bract. The real flower is inside the spathe, on a central spike of tiny yellow true flowers, called a spadix. There are lots of different varieties of Callas, including those with different colors, spotted leaves, and a lower growing habit. Note that this is the only variety that is winter hardy here, and remains evergreen or semi-evergreen. Other cultivars die to the ground in fall, and most winters must be taken in to protect the rhizome, which is then replanted in spring.

Cheers,

John