Arum Lilies: Timeless Elegance for Your Garden

Arum lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and glossy foliage, have captivated gardeners for centuries. Known for their versatility and adaptability, these exquisite flowers adorn gardens as stand-alone specimens, in eye-catching borders, or grace indoor spaces as cut flowers.

Varieties of Arum Lilies

The genus Zantedeschia encompasses a diverse range of arum lilies:

• Zantedeschia aethiopica: The classic white arum lily, a graceful flower with a tall, stately presence.
• Zantedeschia elliottiana: A yellow arum lily, its trumpet-shaped blooms a vibrant burst of sunshine.
• Zantedeschia rehmannii: A pink arum lily, adding a delicate touch of color to the garden.
• Zantedeschia albomaculata: A spotted arum lily, its white blooms adorned with dramatic black spots.

Planting and Care

Planting

Arum lilies thrive in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

• Choose a planting site that receives ample sunlight or partial shade.
• Plant the rhizomes (bulbs) at a depth of 4-6 inches.
• Space the plants 12-18 inches apart.

Care

Arum lilies require regular watering, especially during the growing season.

• Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Remove spent flowers and yellowing foliage to promote new growth.
• Overwinter the plants in colder climates by digging up the rhizomes and storing them in a cool, dry place.

Uses of Arum Lilies

Arum lilies are versatile plants with numerous uses:

Gardening

• Mass plantings create a stunning display of color and texture.
• Combine with other perennials and shrubs for a dynamic garden design.
• Plant in containers for balconies or patios.

Floral Arrangements

• Cut flowers make elegant additions to bouquets and centerpieces.
• White arum lilies are often associated with weddings and funerals.
• Tall stems make them perfect for dramatic arrangements.

Symbolism and Folklore

Arum lilies carry cultural and symbolic meanings:

• In Victorian language of flowers, white arum lilies represent purity and innocence.
• In some cultures, they are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
• In feng shui, arum lilies are said to promote harmony and balance.

Purchasing Arum Lilies

When purchasing arum lilies:

• Choose healthy plants with firm rhizomes and glossy foliage.
• Look for varieties that are hardy in your climate zone.
• Consider the desired bloom color and size.

Table of Arum Lily Varieties and Their Characteristics

| Variety | Bloom Color | Bloom Time | Height | USDA Hardiness Zones |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Zantedeschia aethiopica | White | Spring-Summer | 2-3 feet | 8-11 |
| Zantedeschia elliottiana | Yellow | Spring-Summer | 2-3 feet | 8-11 |
| Zantedeschia rehmannii | Pink | Spring-Summer | 1-2 feet | 8-11 |
| Zantedeschia albomaculata | White with Black Spots | Spring-Summer | 1-2 feet | 8-11 |

Links for Further Information

• Gardenia.net: Arum Lily
• Royal Horticultural Society: Arum Lilies
• University of Minnesota Extension: Arum Lily