Where do arum lilies come from?

The zantedeschia (Arum lily) that consists of tuberous rhizomes. Has several species that again consist of different colours. They occur in moist soil, in swamps or on lake shores in the south of East Africa. They are cultivated for their striking inflorescences. The elliottiana group has strikingly large and wide, usually speckled leaves. The inflorescence that consists of a spadix and a sheath is usually yellow. The rehmannii group has lanceolate dark green leaves and white, pink or dark purple coloured sheaths around a yellow spadix. Zantedeschia (Arum lily) aethiochpica is the well-known arum with the large white inflorescences that is often kept as a houseplant. They are frost-sensitive, but there are also winter-hardy cultivars. All Arum lilies need a lot of water.

‘Calculi have long been a favorite with florists because of their sturdiness and sculptural shape, which gives structure to a floral arrangement’

Characteristics of an Arum Lilium

Arum lilies are very popular because of their beautiful waxy flowers, pure white with a golden yellow spadix. The arrow-shaped leaves are deep green and the entire plant can grow to over 1 metre high. Several species can only be grown in a greenhouse or conservatory, but the zantedeschia also thrives in a sheltered garden. Arum lilies need moist locations with peaty soil, which allows the zantedeschia to flower beautifully.

Growing conditions

Planting location: In full sun or shade. Requires shelter from the wind. Calla lilies also do very well when planted along the water, because the soil along the water is often moist and humus-rich.

Growing the Arum Lilies

You plant Aronskelken in the spring in the month of April. You plant the rhizomes 15 centimeters deep and with a planting distance of 45 centimeters. During dry periods it is advisable to keep the soil moist. This stimulates the growth and root development of the zantedeschia. When the beautiful flowers have come out you can cut the flowers.