Contents
Description
Zantedeschia Mercedes, also known as Calla Lily, is a beautiful flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Araceae family and is popularly grown for its unique funnel-shaped flowers which come in shades of white, pink, yellow, and red. The plant has a long, smooth stem with large, arrow-shaped leaves that can grow up to 60cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Zantedeschia |
Appearance
Zantedeschia Mercedes is a stunning plant with a unique appearance. Its flowers are funnel-shaped with a pointed tip and can grow up to 10 cm in length. The flowers are surrounded by a white, yellow, or pink spathe which adds to its beauty. The leaves of the plant are large and arrow-shaped, ranging from dark green to light green in color. The stem of the plant is long and smooth, and can grow up to 60cm in height.
Care Guide
Zantedeschia Mercedes is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips for its care:Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: Zantedeschia Mercedes can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zantedeschia Mercedes can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. It can also be affected by diseases such as bacterial soft rot and fungal leaf spot. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and provide proper ventilation. If necessary, use an insecticide or fungicide to treat the problem.
Habitat
Zantedeschia Mercedes is native to South Africa and can be found growing in wetlands, marshes, and along streams. It prefers moist soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zantedeschia Mercedes be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is watered regularly.Q: How often should Zantedeschia Mercedes be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal pH for Zantedeschia Mercedes soil?
A: The plant prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5.Q: What hardiness zones can Zantedeschia Mercedes grow in?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Zantedeschia elliottiana
- Zantedeschia rehmannii
- Zantedeschia albomaculata
References
- “Zantedeschia aethiopica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250671&isprofile=0&=&=&=&basetaxonomyid=&=&=&PageIndex=1&=&=&SearchText=zantedeschia>
- “Calla Lily.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 18 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12749/zantedeschia-mercedes/details>
- “Zantedeschia Mercedes.” Gardenia. Accessed 18 June 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/zantedeschia-mercedes>
