Zantedeschia elliottiana Crystal Blush - Calla Lily

The Calla or Zantedeschia 'Crystal Blush' is a particularly elegant and irresistible variety of florist's Arum, which will make a big impact in a vase, as well as in a pot in a refined contemporary interior. Its white cone-shaped flowers delicately edged with pink bloom in summer on beautiful bright green foliage. They will also bring life to the edge of a body of water, or potted plants immersed in shallow water on the terrace. Not very hardy, this tuberous plant requires heat and a soil that is both moist and very rich to thrive.

Zantedeschia 'Crystal Blush' is one of the many hybrids that have been obtained by cross-breeding between two main species native to Eastern and Southern Africa, namely Zantedeschia rehmannii and Z. elliottiana. The vegetation emerges from the ground in spring, in the form of large arrow-shaped green leaves, very decorative outside of the flowering period. Of medium size, this Calla measures between 50 and 60cm (20 and 24in) tall. Like other hybrids, this plant requires specific growing conditions to flower, from June to August. The flower, characteristic of Arums, produces a highly ornamental spathe, almost 10cm (4in) in diameter, hiding a golden yellow spadix in its black heart. The spathe is white when it blooms, then it slightly blushes along the edges over time. Its thick roots grow perpendicularly into the growing medium, they are fleshy and trailing rhizomes. In nature, this plant grows in marshes that usually dry out in summer, under hot climates all year round. The vegetation dries out, and the tuber enters a period of dormancy. This vegetative cycle must be strictly respected in cultivation. Florist's Arums live for many years if the cyclic rest period is well respected.

Zantedeschia 'Crystal Blush' is particularly suited for pot cultivation, which allows it to be sheltered in winter and to control the moisture of the growing medium. It can also be planted in a cool area, near a water feature, or even partially submerged during flowering. Combine its flowers with high-class bouquets, with fern leaves, white freesias, or lilies for example.