Species water arum
Green leaves with green stems.

water arum

Calla palustris

Also Known As - Water Arum
The water arum, also known as Calla palustris, is an amazingly beautiful aquatic plant that is often found near wetlands or other watery locations. Its thick, evergreen leaves and delicate white spathe create an elegant combination that no aquatic garden should be without. The plant is incredibly low maintenance and can thrive in both partial and full sun. It can also adapt to a range of soil conditions. Its bright green, paddle-shaped leaves bring texture and life to any garden, and its unique inflorescence bring beauty to any landscape. With its low maintenance and unique look, the water arum is definitely worth a try!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cormlet Propagation,Seed Propagation,Rhizome Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 6

Flowers:

White spathe encircles yellow-green spadix Flowers

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water arum should be watered once per week, with enough water to saturate the soil fully, but not waterlogged. The soil should be completely dry before watering again. It's best to water in the morning, as doing so in the evening can create a favorable environment for diseases. During the hottest months of the year, the water arum may require more frequent waterings, such as once every 3 to 4 days. To help maintain soil moisture, a thick layer of mulch is recommended.

sunlight

Water arum (Calla palustris) thrives in wet areas, such as marshes, ditches, and shallow streams. In order to thrive, water arum requires plenty of sunlight, but the amount and type of sunlight depends on the location of the plant. In full sun, the water arum needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant is in partial shade, 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day should suffice. It is best to avoid planting water arum in direct shade, since it will not receive enough light and will not grow to its potential. Water arum is a seasonal plant, so the amount of sun it receives changes with the seasons. During its growing season (spring and early summer), the water arum needs plenty of sunlight; the more sunlight it gets, the better off it will be. During the winter, direct sunlight can damage the plant, and it is best for the plant to receive indirect light. While water arum needs plenty of light to thrive, it is important to avoid extreme sunlight, as the plant can experience sunburn if it is overexposed to intense sunlight. For this reason, it is best to ensure that your water arum is in an area of the garden that is not naturally prone to intense sunlight.

pruning

Water arum should be pruned in late winter or early spring, right before the start of its growing season. Pruning should be kept to a minimum, and only the dead, sick, or broken foliage should be removed. Occasionally, 1 may need to lightly shape the plant by cutting away a few of the longer stems to reduce the overall size of the plant. It is important to use clean, sharp garden shears for pruning to prevent infection. Furthermore, removing the flower spikes at the end of its blooming period will help to increase and prolong flowering.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Calla palustris typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Calla palustris typically begins in June and ends in August.

Hardiness Map