Calla Lily 'Sumatra' Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' (PBR)
ABOUT
Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' is commonly known as the Calla Lily 'Sumatra'. This particular variety is valued for its striking, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are characterized by a deep purple hue that gives them an exotic and luxurious appearance. The flowers are attention-grabbing with their glossy texture and often have a beautifully contrasting yellow spadix at their center, which adds to their ornamental appeal. The leaves of the Calla Lily 'Sumatra' are equally impressive. They are large, arrow-shaped, and have a lush green color with a waxy finish. These leaves often feature white or light-colored spots which provide a pleasant contrast against the dark green backdrop, adding to the decorative quality of the plant. The overall form of the Calla Lily 'Sumatra' is elegant and statuesque, with a clumping growth habit that lends itself well to gardens and floral displays. Its flowers are typically borne atop sturdy stems that rise above the foliage, giving the blooms prominence. The combination of its dramatic flowers and attractive foliage makes Calla Lily 'Sumatra' a popular choice for both cut flower arrangements and as a showy plant for garden beds, borders, or containers. It brings a touch of sophistication to any setting it graces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araceae
Synonyms
Sumatra Calla Lily, Sumatra Arum Lily
Common names
Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Calla Lily, including the Zantedeschia 'Sumatra', contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans. If ingested, these crystals can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and throat. Swallowing parts of the plant can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the swelling of the tongue and throat can lead to difficulty breathing. Always handle Calla Lily with care to avoid accidental ingestion and consider keeping it out of reach of children who may be tempted to eat plant parts.
To pets
Calla Lily contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to pets. If a pet chews or ingests any part of a Calla Lily, they can experience symptoms such as oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and potential swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. These symptoms can be distressing and cause pain for the animal. If you suspect your pet has ingested Calla Lily, you should contact a veterinarian immediately. It is advisable to keep this plant out of your pets' reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' features deep burgundy blooms that add a dramatic touch to any garden or bouquet.
- Easy maintenance: This calla lily variety is known for its ease of care, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Long blooming period: It offers an extended blooming season, providing color and interest for a longer duration.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers of the plant are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatile planting: Suitable for planting in beds, borders, and containers, providing flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Ideal for cut flowers: The sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms of Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' make it a popular choice for cut floral arrangements.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it has a moderate drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' can be used as a source for natural dyes; the pigments in the leaves and spathes can be used to dye textiles and papers subtly.
- Its dried spathes are often incorporated into floral arrangements and crafts, providing an exotic and lasting element.
- Calla lilies are used in aquariums for their bold foliage; however, they must remain partially above water as they are not true aquatic plants.
- Photographers often use these plants as subjects or backdrops due to their elegant form and vibrant colors.
- These plants can be utilized in companion planting to help hide the less attractive lower stems of taller, leggy plants.
- Their large, broad leaves can be used in garden arrangements to provide contrast with fine-leaved plants.
- In religious and cultural events, especially in weddings, calla lilies are symbolic in various floral decorations and bouquets.
- Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' is sometimes grown as a potted plant for interior design, adding a pop of color and sophistication to home decor.
- Artists might use the form and structure of calla lilies as inspiration for sculptures, paintings, and decorative motives.
- As an educational tool, they can help to teach botany and horticulture, illustrating plant growth, structure, and reproduction.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCalla Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCalla Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: Calla Lily 'Sumatra' is admired for its magnificent and elegant blooms that signify exceptional beauty.
- Refinement: The smooth lines and rich colors of the Calla Lily 'Sumatra' reflect a sense of sophistication and grace.
- Purity: Calla Lilies are often associated with purity due to their clean, trumpet-shaped flowers; though 'Sumatra' has a darker hue, it still carries this association.
- Marriage and Devotion: Owing to its beauty and form, the Calla Lily 'Sumatra' is a popular choice for wedding bouquets, symbolizing devotion and the unification of two people.
- Rebirth and Resurrection: The Calla Lily 'Sumatra', as with other calla lilies, embodies the idea of rebirth and resurrection, particularly because of its use during Easter celebrations.
- Feminine: The Calla Lily 'Sumatra' exudes a feminine charm and is often seen as emblematic of a woman's allure and mystery.
- Tranquility: The Calla Lily 'Sumatra' can also symbolize tranquility and peace, with its smooth form encouraging a sense of calm.
WaterCalla lilies, including the Zantedeschia 'Sumatra', should be thoroughly watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to about once a week during active growth periods. Provide enough water to moisten the soil evenly, but avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. In hotter temperatures, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture. A rule of thumb is to use about one gallon of water per square foot every week, adjusting as necessary for your specific environmental conditions.
LightCalla lilies thrive in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. Placing a Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' in a location where it receives morning light but is sheltered from the intense afternoon sun is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day as it can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature for Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' calla lilies ranges from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to frost. To encourage blooming, maintain a warmer temperature within the ideal range.
PruningPruning Zantedeschia 'Sumatra' calla lilies involves removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and prevent disease. It's best to prune during the growing season, cutting back foliage once it starts to die down, usually in the fall. Pruning is typically required only once a year or as necessary to maintain the plant's appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCalla Lily 'Sumatra' thrives best in a well-draining, peat-rich potting mix with a pH of 6.0-6.5. A mixture of two parts peat moss to one part perlite or sand is ideal for ensuring proper moisture and aeration. Adding compost can enhance the soil's fertility.
RepottingCalla Lilies like 'Sumatra' should be repotted every 2 years to replenish the soil and accommodate growth. It is best to repot them in spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingCalla Lily 'Sumatra' prefers high humidity, around 60-70%. Maintaining these humidity levels will promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Calla Lily 'Sumatra' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Grow Calla Lily 'Sumatra' in partial shade outdoors.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleZantedeschia 'Sumatra', commonly known as Calla Lily 'Sumatra', typically begins its life cycle when a rhizome is planted in well-draining soil during the spring. The plant enters a growth phase where it develops large, arrow-shaped foliage and a sturdy stem that eventually produces a single, funnel-shaped spathe, which is often mistaken for a flower, with the true flowers on a spike inside the spathe. After flowering, the plant enters a dormancy phase where the foliage yellows and dies back, especially in regions with cooler winters. The rhizome remains dormant under the soil throughout the winter or in periods of extended drought. With the return of favorable conditions like warmth and moisture in the following growing season, the rhizome awakens from dormancy, and the plant begins a new cycle of growth. To complete its life cycle, the Calla Lily can be propagated by dividing rhizomes during dormancy before the next growth cycle begins.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Zantedeschia 'Sumatra', commonly known as a variety of the Calla Lily, is typically propagated through division of its rhizomes. The optimal time to propagate is during late winter or early spring when the plant is not actively growing. To propagate, carefully lift the plant from the ground or pot and brush off any excess soil. Identify the rhizome clumps with at least one growing point or "eye." Using a clean, sharp knife, divide the rhizomes so that each piece has one or more growth points. These divisions can then be planted in well-draining soil at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (roughly 7.5 to 10 centimeters), ensuring the growing points are facing upwards. Water the newly planted rhizomes thoroughly to help establish them.
