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Description
Zantedeschia Night Cap, also known as Calla Lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Araceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.The plant has a rhizomatous root system and produces long, dark green leaves that are arrow-shaped. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of deep purple, almost black, which is where it gets its name from. The flowers bloom in late spring through early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Zantedeschia |
Appearance
Zantedeschia Night Cap grows up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The plant has a clumping habit and produces long, dark green leaves that are glossy and arrow-shaped. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of deep purple, almost black. The flowers are surrounded by a white, funnel-shaped bract that is 3-4 inches long.
Care Guide
Zantedeschia Night Cap requires moderate care and attention to thrive.Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Protect it from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Zantedeschia Night Cap is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zantedeschia Night Cap is susceptible to pests and diseases, including spider mites, thrips, and bacterial soft rot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant clean and well-watered, and avoid over-fertilization. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, remove the affected parts immediately.
Habitat
Zantedeschia Night Cap is native to South Africa and grows in wetlands, along streams, and in marshy areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Zantedeschia Night Cap?
A: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.Q: What kind of soil does Zantedeschia Night Cap prefer?
A: The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Q: How tall does Zantedeschia Night Cap grow?
A: The plant grows up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide.Q: What hardiness zones is Zantedeschia Night Cap suitable for?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Zantedeschia elliottiana
- Zantedeschia rehmannii
- Zantedeschia albomaculata
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/calla-lily/growing-calla-lilies-and-care-of-calla-lilies.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23513/Zantedeschia-Nightcap/Details
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/flower/calla-lily/
