Overview
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' is a perennial in the genus Zantedeschia, part of the Araceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' 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 'Hercules' is a rhizomatous perennial from Lesotho, South Africa and Eswatini that produces white spathes and a central yellow spadix. In its native range it occupies moist ground; in cultivation the same requirement for a reliably wet root run helps the plant set a good display. Position plants in full sun and provide soils that remain wet—sandy, loamy or clay soils are all acceptable provided they are kept damp. The cultivar reaches about 1.0 m in a clump and has an H4 hardiness rating (average hardy), corresponding roughly to USDA zones 8–10; in cooler parts of the UK choose a reliably sheltered, moisture-retentive situation. Flowering runs from June to September, so expect summer colour over several months. Use Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' where soil stays moist: damp borders, boggy patches or any site where irrigation delivers constant moisture. Because all parts of the plant are toxic, avoid planting where curious children or pets may sample the foliage. The plant’s summer display of white spathes and a yellow spadix is the seasonally distinctive feature to plan around, with established clumps typically reaching about 1.0 m at maturity.
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 'Hercules' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- Lesotho, South Africa, Eswatini
- Toxicity
- Toxic
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' prefers full sun.
What soil does Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' need?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' 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 'Hercules' grow?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' hardy in the UK?
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'?
Division, Seed.
Is Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules' toxic?
Toxic.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Zantedeschia genus
- Zantedeschia aethiopicaarum lily
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Compacta'Compact Calla Lily
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Crowborough'arum lily 'Crowborough'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Green Goddess'arum lily 'Green Goddess'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Perle von Stuttgart'
- Zantedeschia aethiopica 'White Sail'arum lily 'White Sail'
- Zantedeschia elliottianagolden calla
- Zantedeschia 'Qatar'