The Majestic White Giant Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica ‘White Giant’)

The white giant calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica ‘White Giant’) is truly a sight to behold in any garden. This magnificent variety towers over most other plants, with huge leaves and flowers that can reach up to 6 feet tall!

An Overview of White Giant Calla Lilies

Calla lilies belong to the Araceae family and are native to southern Africa. The species Zantedeschia aethiopica is the most commonly grown calla lily, known for its large white flowers. ‘White Giant’ is a cultivar of this species that has been selected for its exceptionally large size.

This plant grows from a rhizomatous tuber and forms clumps that can reach up to 4 feet wide. The leaves are large, arrowhead-shaped, and speckled with white spots. They can measure over 2 feet long by 1 foot wide. The flower scapes tower above the foliage, sometimes reaching 6-7 feet tall! The showy flowers have a white spathe (modified leaf) surrounding a yellow spadix (flower spike). They can measure 9 inches long and are a spectacular focal point in the garden.

Growing Conditions for White Giant Calla Lilies

White giant calla lilies need very moist soil to thrive They are often grown at the edges of ponds or water features where their tubers can sit in mud, The rhizomes should be planted 3-4 inches deep in rich soil in full sun to part shade Too much sun can scorch the leaves in hot climates,

These plants are only hardy to zone 8, so in cooler zones the tubers need to be dug up and overwintered indoors. They make excellent container specimens that can be moved inside for the winter. Foliage may die back during dormancy but will regrow quickly in spring.

Provide regular water and fertilizer through the growing season for best results. As a bog plant, white giant calla lilies are very heavy feeders and appreciate plenty of nutrients. Remove spent flowers and dead leaves to keep plants looking fresh.

Using White Giant Calla Lilies in the Landscape

With their imposing height and tropical look, white giant calla lilies make a stunning specimen plant. They work well as focal points beside ponds, pools, or water features. Mass several together for high visual impact. They also grow beautifully in containers on patios or decks.

The bold leaves and flowers contrast nicely with finer-textured grasses ferns and perennials. Some nice companions include astilbe japanese iris, cannas, and ornamental grasses. They combine well with other exotic looking plants like bananas, gingers, and elephant ears.

White giant callas add vertical interest to the back of mixed borders. They make excellent cut flowers and work well in floral arrangements. Place them along walkways and entries where their flowers can be admired up close.

Other Interesting Facts about White Giant Calla Lilies

• The common name “calla lily” comes from the Greek word “kallos” meaning beauty. However, they are not true lilies.

• In Africa, native Zantedeschia species grow in a variety of habitats including swamps, grasslands, and forests. The leaves of some species are used medicinally.

• Calla lilies have been depicted in art since ancient Egyptian times. They represent magnificence and beauty.

• Cut calla stems exude a milky juice that is poisonous and can irritate skin. Handle with caution.

• Calla lilies are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including the engrailed and green-banded brocade moths.

• There are over a dozen species in the Zantedeschia genus. Most have white flowers but some species have yellow, pink or purple blooms.

• Calla lilies can be grown as houseplants during winter dormancy. Place tubers in pots of pebbles and water. Leaves will emerge in 2-3 weeks.

• Callas are popular wedding flowers representing purity and new beginnings. They are also given as gifts for 8th and 13th wedding anniversaries.

The white giant calla lily provides huge tropical flair in gardens and landscapes. If given sufficient moisture and nutrients, it will reward you with magnificent blooms on towering flower stalks. Plant this variety near water features or in containers where its fabulous flowers can’t be missed. It’s an exotic beauty that is sure to draw attention!