Species

Zantedeschia aethiopicaCalla Lily

8 other cultivars

perennial

Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana

Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Childsiana'

The Story

Plant Bio

Zantedeschia aethiopica, commonly known as the Calla Lily, is a perennial plant with elegant arrow-shaped leaves and striking white, trumpet-shaped flowers that add a touch of sophistication to gardens and floral arrangements.

The 'Childsiana' cultivar is distinguished by its particularly large, pure white flowers and vigorous growth habit, making it a popular choice for dramatic displays and cut flower arrangements.

Uses & Benefits:

The striking white spathes add elegance to shaded gardens and floral arrangements.

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

Provides nectar for pollinators and habitat for beneficial insects.

SpeciesZantedeschia aethiopicaCalla Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moist to wet

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern Africa

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation.

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-drained soil.
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root development.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize monthly during growing season for best blooms.
Divide clumps after flowering for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during summer
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid waterlogging, which can cause rhizome rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery foliage accent in shaded bordersVanilla-scented cut flower in bouquetsMoisture-loving pondside planting

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe LigulariaJapanese Iris

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana questions

What zones can Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana grow in?

Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana 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 Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana deer resistant?

Yes — Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana bloom?

Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana 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 Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana need full sun?

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