Species

Zantedeschia aethiopicaCalla Lily

8 other cultivars

perennial

Dwarf Calla Lily

Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Little Gem'

The Story

Plant Bio

Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Little Gem' is a perennial plant with elegant, arrow-shaped green leaves and distinctive white, funnel-shaped flowers that resemble calla lilies, adding a touch of grace to garden borders and containers.

This cultivar is prized for its compact size, making it ideal for smaller gardens and indoor cultivation, while maintaining the classic beauty and resilience of the species.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds striking visual interest with elegant white spathes in shaded gardens.

Prefers moist soils, making it ideal for pond edges and moist borders.

Attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesZantedeschia aethiopicaCalla Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, well-draining soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in partial shade for best results.
Water consistently during growing season.
Mulch to retain soil moisture in spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, moist soil with partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot ❌
Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight in hot climates
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shadowed pond borderElegant container displayShade garden accent

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Caladiums LigulariaAstilbes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf Calla Lily questions

What zones can Dwarf Calla Lily grow in?

Dwarf Calla Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dwarf Calla Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Dwarf Calla Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Dwarf Calla Lily bloom?

Dwarf Calla Lily typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dwarf Calla Lily need full sun?

Dwarf Calla Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.