Explanation of the name
Zantedeschia was originally named Arum aethiopicum or Ethiopian Arum. In those days (the 18th century) Africa was still relatively undiscovered and Ethiopia was used to represent practically the entire African continent. Other names applied to the plant included: Calla aethiopica, whereby 'Calla' is Greek for 'beautiful'. It was also called 'Richardia africana' after the French botanist Richard. Eventually the name became Zantedeschia, after the Italian botanist and physician G. Zantedeschi (1773-1846). Aethiopiacis is Greek for 'Growing in the country of the Moors' or 'Baked by the sun’. Zantedeschia is also called Calla or Arum lily.
Tips for storage
The flowers can be kept in a dark, cool place (39 to 46°F) for a few days, provided the relative humidity is 90%. The flowers remain fresh for a longer period if they are used immediately however the they start to droop in damp, warm conditions. In this case, do not place the flowers in the cool room but allow them to 'dry out'; they will then regain their firmness.
Tips for transport
Zantedeschia leaves can be laid over the edges of the containers. Cardboard sheets with punched holes are used by growers to stand bunches upright. This prevents the flowers from sliding. The ideal prototype of a cardboard support that can be laid over the edge of the container has yet to be developed. Finally, sealing in the trolley with shrink wrap prevents the flowers from falling off of the trolley.
Tips for care in the shop
Tips for care in the home
The shelf life of the Zantedeschia is 10 to 14 days, depending on the room temperature.
Use a clean vase and clean tap water.
Vases and other holders must be cleaned thoroughly.
Add fresh water, possibly with cut flower food, every three days.
The cleaner the water, the longer the plants will last. Dirty water causes the stems to become slimy and the flowers to rot.
Cut the stems.
The flowers can be picked from the plant and cut. The lowest portion of the stem of a flower that has been picked, is white. This portion of the stem was underground. Do not cut off all the white portion of the stem, as the stem may curl or split. The shelf life and water uptake are better if a portion of white is left on the bottom of the stem. If the end of the stem is green, the florist and/or consumer should dissolve 2 tablespoons sugar per ¼ gallon of water. This prevents splitting and promotes water uptake. The end of the stem should also be shortened regularly. In addition, a chlorine tablet may be added to the water.
Cut flower food is really not needed. It helps, as does the sugar solution, to prevent the green part of the stem from curling up.
More information
Zantedeschia 'Captain Amigo®' - novelty June 2008
Zantedeschia aethiopica ‘Grace’ - novelty October 2006
Zantedeschia 'Mozart' - novelty May 2004
