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Description
Zantedeschia Flame, also known as Flame Calla Lily or Red Calla Lily, is a stunning perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Araceae and is popular for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers range in color from bright red to orange and can grow up to 8 inches long. The plant can reach a height of up to 2 feet and has glossy, arrow-shaped leaves that are usually green, but can also be variegated with white or yellow markings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Zantedeschia |
Appearance
Zantedeschia Flame is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden or indoor space. Its flowers are the main attraction, with their vibrant hues and long, elegant shape. The leaves are also quite striking, with their shiny surface and arrowhead shape. Zantedeschia Flame is a relatively small plant, with a height of up to 2 feet, and it is best grown in pots or containers. The plant has a rhizomatous stem that can spread and produce new shoots, making it easy to propagate.
Care Guide
Zantedeschia Flame is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, as long as its basic needs are met.
- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Zantedeschia Flame prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate some shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Zantedeschia Flame is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder climates, it can be grown as an indoor plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zantedeschia Flame is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. Use a neem oil spray to control them.
- Thrips: These insects can damage the flowers, causing them to become deformed or discolored. Use an insecticide to control them.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can affect the plant if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and a foul odor. Remove the affected plant parts and improve the drainage.
Habitat
Zantedeschia Flame is native to South Africa, where it grows in wetlands, marshes, and along streams. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding. In cultivation, the plant can be grown indoors or outdoors, as long as its basic needs are met.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Zantedeschia Flame?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Zantedeschia Flame be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Zantedeschia Flame can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate light and moisture.
Q: How do I propagate Zantedeschia Flame?
A: Zantedeschia Flame can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in spring, before new growth starts.
Q: How long does Zantedeschia Flame bloom?
A: Zantedeschia Flame blooms in summer and can continue to flower for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Zantedeschia Aethiopica (White Calla Lily)
- Zantedeschia Elliottiana (Golden Calla Lily)
- Zantedeschia Rehmannii (Pink Calla Lily)
References
- “Zantedeschia Flame.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c977.
- “Zantedeschia Flame.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/78192/Zantedeschia-Flame/.
- “Zantedeschia Flame.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10254/zantedeschia-flame/details.
