Arum Lily, Calla lily, White Calla Lily

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Physical Characteristics

Zantedeschia aethiopica is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

S. Africa. Locally naturalized in S. and W. Europe[50].

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - cooked[105, 177]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Many plants in this family are poisonous raw, due to the presence of calcium oxylate crystals. If eaten raw, this toxin gives you a sensation as if hundreds of tiny needles are sticking into the mouth, tongue etc. However, it is easily destroyed by thoroughly cooking or drying the plant. Although no specific mention has been seen for this plant it is wise to assume that it is poisonous in its raw state.