Overview
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' is a perennial in the genus Zantedeschia, part of the Araceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is native to Lesotho, South Africa and Eswatini.
About the genus
Zantedeschia is a genus of eight species of herbaceous, perennial, flowering plants in the aroid family, Araceae, native to southern Africa. The genus has been introduced, in some form, on every continent other than Antarctica.
Wikipedia contributors, "Zantedeschia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Zantedeschia
In the garden
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' is a compact form of the calla lily, native to Lesotho, South Africa and Eswatini. As a perennial from the Araceae family it reaches roughly 1.0 m and is adapted to locations where the soil stays moist. Its name and habit reflect its origin in seasonally wet habitats of southern Africa. Plant with the rootball level at the soil surface in a sunny position where moisture is reliable; it will grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they do not dry out. The cultivar is hardy to H4 (average) in the UK and corresponds to USDA zones 8–10, so it tolerates typical British winters but will perform best where winter wetness is not excessive or where shelter reduces exposure. Use Compact Calla Lily on pond margins, in damp mixed borders or in large containers kept consistently moist. Allow enough room for the clump to establish to its 1.0 m height and position it so its summer display between June and September is visible from paths or patios rather than shaded by late-season perennials.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Zantedeschia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Wet
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- Lesotho, South Africa, Eswatini
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta'?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' prefers full sun.
What soil does Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' need?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays wet.
How big does Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' grow?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' hardy in the UK?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
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More in the Zantedeschia genus
- Zantedeschia aethiopicaarum lily
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Crowborough'arum lily 'Crowborough'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Green Goddess'arum lily 'Green Goddess'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'Calla Lily
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Perle von Stuttgart'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'White Sail'arum lily 'White Sail'
- Zantedeschia elliottianagolden calla
- Zantedeschia 'Qatar'