Pink calla lily
Also known as
Pink arum, Rehmann's arum, Pink zantedeschia, Calla lily (pink forms)
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Zantedeschia rehmannii is a summer-growing, tuberous aroid native to the summer-rainfall grasslands of northeastern South Africa and Eswatini. Commonly called the pink calla lily, it forms clumps of slender, lanceolate leaves and elegant, funnel-shaped spathes in shades of rose to deep magenta surrounding a yellow spadix. Plants typically reach 20–45 cm tall, making them well suited to containers and borders. Unlike the evergreen Z. aethiopica, this species has a pronounced dormant season: foliage senesces after flowering and the tubers rest until conditions warm again. In nature it occurs on well-drained, often rocky slopes that are moist in the growing season and dry in winter, a pattern that guides cultivation. Provide an airy, humus-rich medium that drains freely, steady moisture during active growth, and a dry rest once leaves yellow. With bright, filtered light and moderate temperatures, Z. rehmannii rewards growers with long-lasting blooms that also make excellent cut flowers.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Pink calla lily
Water
During active growth (when shoots and leaves are present), keep the mix evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water thoroughly until excess drains, then wait until the top 2–3 cm of medium is dry before watering again. In hot, bright conditions, this may mean watering every few days; in cooler rooms, weekly is sufficient. Always empty saucers. Reduce watering sharply as flowers fade and foliage yellows, and keep the tubers barely dry during dormancy—just enough to prevent shriveling if stored in the pot.
Light
Provide bright, filtered light or dappled sun. Outdoors, give morning sun with afternoon shade; indoors, an east window or bright south/west with sheer curtains works well. Aim for 10,000–20,000 lux (1,000–2,000 foot-candles). Too little light yields floppy stems and poor flowering; harsh midday sun, especially in hot climates, can bleach spathes and scorch leaves. Rotate plants for even exposure. In cool, mild summers, they tolerate more sun; in hot regions, prioritize protection from midday/afternoon rays.
Nutrients
Feed during active growth only. Mix a slow-release, low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer (e.g., N-P-K around 5-7-10) into the potting medium at planting, then supplement every 2–3 weeks with a half-strength liquid bloom fertilizer. Excess nitrogen produces lush leaves at the expense of flowers and can invite soft growth and rot. Stop feeding as soon as flowering wanes and foliage begins to yellow for dormancy. Leach the pot with plain water monthly to prevent fertilizer salt buildup.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures are 16–24°C by day and 12–16°C by night during growth; brief cooler nights enhance color and stem strength. Protect from frost—tissue damage occurs near 0°C, and tubers are killed by sustained freezes. Above 29–32°C, flowering declines and plants may stall; increase shade and humidity, and water in the morning to reduce heat stress. For dormant storage, keep lifted, dry tubers at 7–10°C in a breathable bag. Avoid cold, wet soils at any time, which encourage rot.
