Zantedeschia
Zantedeschia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to southern Africa. The name of the genus was given as a tribute to Italian botanist Giovanni Zantedeschi (1773-1846). Zantedeschia species are cultivated as ornamental plants. They are commonly known as calla lilies, although they are not related to the true lilies of the genus Lilium.
Zantedeschia plants are native to southern Africa. They grow in moist, shady areas in forests, swamps, and along riverbanks. The plants are found in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, and Namibia.
The zantedeschia plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows from rhizomes or tuberous roots. It has large, arrowhead-shaped leaves and showy flowers that are borne on stalks. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red.
Zantedeschia plants are grown in gardens and as houseplants. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. When grown indoors, they need bright light and high humidity. Zantedeschia plants are relatively easy to care for and are not susceptible to many pests or diseases. Zantedeschia plants are known for their ability to tolerate drought conditions. They will often go dormant during periods of drought and then re-sprout when conditions improve. Zantedeschia plants are also relatively tolerant of salt and can be grown in coastal areas.
Zantedeschia plants are considered to be poisonous to humans and animals. The toxins are found in all parts of the plant but are most concentrated in the roots. Symptoms of intoxication include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to convulsions and death. Zantedeschia plants should not be ingested under any circumstances.
Zantedeschia plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but will tolerate some shade. They should be watered regularly during the growing season but allowed to dry out between waterings. Zantedeschia plants can be propagated from seed, rhizomes, or division.
Global zantedeschia production
Zantedeschia is a genus of flowering plants that includes eight species of herbaceous perennials, also known as calla lilies. The native range of these plants extends from southern Africa to the Arabian Peninsula. Zantedeschia species are grown for their large, showy flowers, which are borne on leafless stalks. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple.
Zantedeschia species are widely cultivated as ornamental plants. They are popular as cut flowers and are often used in floral arrangements. These plants can also be grown in pots and containers. Zantedeschia is also the national flower of Zimbabwe.
The genus name Zantedeschia is derived from the Italian botanist Giovanni Zantedeschi (1773-1846). The common name "calla lily" is derived from the Greek word for beautiful, kallos.
Global production of zantedeschia is mainly concentrated in South Africa, where the majority of the world's supply is produced. Other major producing countries include Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tanzania. Zantedeschia is also grown commercially in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
The zantedeschia market is largely driven by the cut flower industry, as the plant is a popular subject for floral arrangements. The leaves and stems are also used in a variety of decorative applications. In addition to its ornamental value, zantedeschia has a number of culinary and medicinal applications. The plant is used as a food ingredient in a number of traditional African dishes, and the flowers are sometimes used in salads or as a garnish. The roots and leaves of the plant are also used to make a traditional African herbal medicine, which is said to have a number of health benefits.