Species
Zantedeschia aethiopicaCalla Lily8 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Zantedeschia aethiopica, commonly known as the Calla Lily, is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring elegant, arrow-shaped green leaves and large, trumpet-shaped white flowers that resemble elegant spathes.
The 'Whipped Cream' cultivar is distinguished by its pristine white flowers with a creamy hue, offering a lush, sophisticated appearance ideal for cut flower arrangements and ornamental displays.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Africa
Toxicity
Yes
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 soil
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Place in partial shade for best flowering
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Use rich, well-draining soil and keep soil consistently moist for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
- Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
Don't
- Avoid letting soil dry out completely
- Don’t expose rhizomes to frost
- Avoid overwatering leading to root rot
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Ethiopian Calla Lily questions
What zones can Ethiopian Calla Lily grow in?
Ethiopian Calla Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. 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 deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Ethiopian Calla Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Ethiopian Calla Lily bloom?
Ethiopian 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 Ethiopian Calla Lily need full sun?
Ethiopian Calla Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Zantedeschia to compare
Flame Calla Lily
Zantedeschia x hybrida 'Flame'
Ethiopian Calla Lily Hercules
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'
Flower Power Calla Lily
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Flower Power'
Neon Amour Calla Lily
Zantedeschia x hybrida 'Neon Amour'
Ethiopian Calla Lily Childsiana
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Childsiana'
Giant White Calla Lily
Zantedeschia elliottiana 'Giant White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Ethiopian Calla Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.