Zantedeschia aethiopica

Zantedeschia aethiopica is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to southern Africa in Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland. It is also commonly known as the Arum Lily or Calla Lily, although it is neither a true lily (Liliaceae), nor Arum or Calla (related genera in Araceae). It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant, evergreen where rainfall and temperatures are adequate, deciduous where there is a dry season.

Description

Zantedeschia aethiopica is a robust plant, growing to 1–2.5 m (3.3–8.2 ft) tall, with lush, bright green foliage. The leaves are large, 15–45 cm (5.9–17.7 in), and broadly arrow-shaped. The flowers are large, produced in spring, summer and autumn, with a pure white spathe up to 25 cm (9.8 in) and a yellow spadix up to 90 mm (3.5 in) long.

Cultivation

Zantedeschia aethiopica is a popular garden plant, both as an ornamental plant and cut flower. It is hardy to USDA Zone 8. It can be grown in containers, and its cut flowers will last up to two weeks in a vase. It prefers full sun to semi-shade, and requires a monthly feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and regular watering during the flowering season.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic, and produce irritation and swelling of the mouth and throat, acute vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. The plant is especially dangerous for cats and dogs, where ingestion can lead to coma and death.

Uses

In addition to its use as an ornamental plant, Zantedeschia aethiopica has been used in traditional medicine. The raw plant is toxic, but once cooked, the corms can be used to treat ailments such as asthma, rheumatism, and kidney ailments.

See also

• List of Zantedeschia species
• Araceae
• Flora of South Africa