Canna Lilies vs. Calla Lilies: Toxicity Clarification

The landscaper planted canna lilies (Canna), but the maintenance person warned about calla lily (Zantedeschia) toxicity. They are different plants.

Canna Lily (Canna)

• Tropical-looking foliage, colorful flowers (red, orange, yellow).
• Rhizomes are edible (canna starch/arrowroot).
• Not highly toxic. May cause mild stomach upset if eaten in quantity.

Calla Lily (Zantedeschia)

• White or colored trumpet spathe, arrow-shaped leaves.
• All parts highly toxic (calcium oxalate crystals). Causes severe burning, swelling, vomiting. Fatal in large doses.

Action

Confirm which plant you have. If it's canna, risk is low. If it's calla, remove it from areas accessible to toddlers and pets.

Don't confuse the two—safety depends on correct ID.