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Calla imagePhoto: Author Kurt Stüber [1]GFDL

Bog Arum

Calla palustris

Also known as: Calla, Marsh Calla, Wild Calla, Squaw Claw, Water-arum
Native to Cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (Europe, northern Asia, northern North America)

Calla palustris is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant that thrives in wetland environments like bogs and ponds. It features rounded to heart-shaped leaves measuring 6-12 cm (2.5-4.75 in) long on 10-20 cm (4-8 in) petioles, with a glossy green appearance. The plant produces a distinctive greenish-yellow spadix inflorescence wrapped in a white spathe, followed by clusters of bright red berries. Notable for its toxicity when fresh due to high oxalic acid content, its rhizome becomes edible after extensive processing.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
Lightmedium
WaterKeep soil constantly moist or submerged in shallow water
Humidityhigh

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Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Calla

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Keep soil constantly moist or submerged in shallow water

Humidity Needs

high humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

Cool temperate regions; prefers 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)

Native Climate

Native to Cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (Europe, northern Asia, northern North America)

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Prefers wet, boggy soils rich in organic matter

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Calla plants

Rhizome division and seeds

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (Europe, northern Asia, northern North America)

Mature Size

Up to 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) tall

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety
Mildly Toxic

Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing

Toxic parts: All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals

🌸 Flowering

Bloom Season

Late spring to early summer

Flower Description

Greenish-yellow spadix surrounded by a white spathe, producing red berries after flowering

Fun Fact

Despite being highly toxic when fresh, the rhizome becomes edible after thorough drying, grinding, leaching, and boiling.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Calla

No problems reported

Good news! No common problems have been reported for this plant. If you encounter any issues, check back later or join our community to share your experience.

Community Tips

Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts

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Nurseries Near You

Find Where to Buy Calla

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