Calla lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) are among the most elegant and timeless flowers, often seen in wedding bouquets and ornamental gardens. With their smooth, trumpet-shaped blooms and lush green foliage, these tropical perennials bring beauty and sophistication to any space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this guide will help you grow and care for calla lilies effectively.
Calla lilies hold deep symbolic meanings, making them truly special. They are often associated with holiness, faith, and purity, making them a popular choice for religious and ceremonial occasions.
White calla lilies, in particular, are commonly used in Easter services, symbolizing resurrection and rebirth. Their elegant and serene appearance also makes them a traditional choice for funeral arrangements and expressions of sympathy, offering a message of peace and remembrance.
Understanding Calla Lilies
Despite their name, calla lilies are not true lilies. They belong to the Araceae family and grow from rhizomes rather than bulbs. Native to South Africa, these plants thrive in warm, humid conditions but can also be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Characteristics of Calla Lilies
Botanical Name: Zantedeschia aethiopica
Common Name: Calla lily, Arum lily
Family: Araceae
Plant Type: Rhizome
Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
Bloom Time: Summer
Flower Colors: White, pink, red, orange, yellow, deep purple, and even black
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets
How to Grow Calla Lilies
1. Choosing the Right Location
Calla lilies thrive in areas with warm temperatures (60-80°F) and bright light. In cooler regions, they prefer full sun, but in hot climates, partial shade helps protect their delicate blooms.
2. Preparing the Soil
These flowers love moist but well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. If planting outdoors, enrich the soil with organic compost to improve drainage and nutrients. They also grow well near ponds or in container gardens.
3. Planting Calla Lilies
- When to plant: In spring after the last frost.
- How deep to plant: 3–4 inches deep.
- Spacing: At least 12 inches apart for proper airflow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Caring for Calla Lilies
1. Watering
Calla lilies require regular watering but should never sit in soggy soil. For potted plants, check the moisture level frequently, as pots dry out faster than garden soil.
2. Fertilizing
To encourage blooming, use a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10). Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
3. Temperature and Humidity
These tropical plants enjoy high humidity. If growing indoors, mist the leaves occasionally. When temperatures drop below 50°F, calla lilies go dormant.
4. Pruning
Deadheading spent flowers encourages new blooms. In warmer climates (Zones 8+), trim the foliage down to the soil level at the end of the growing season. Always wear gloves, as the plant’s sap can irritate the skin.
5. Propagation
Calla lilies can be propagated in two ways:
Rhizome Division (Recommended) – Separate rhizomes with at least one growing eye and replant. This method produces flowers faster than growing from seeds.
Seeds – Takes up to three years to bloom. Requires pre-germination on damp paper towels before planting.
Overwintering Calla Lilies in Cold Climates
If you live in Zones below 8, you’ll need to dig up and store the rhizomes:
- Carefully remove rhizomes before the first frost.
- Brush off soil (don’t wash them).
- Let them dry for 4-7 days in a warm, ventilated area.
- Store in a paper bag or wrapped in newspaper in a cool (50°F), dry place like a garage or basement.
- Replant in spring once temperatures warm up.
Common Problems & How to Fix Them
1. Yellowing Leaves or Wilting
Cause: Underwatering or lack of sunlight
Solution: Increase watering and ensure the plant gets enough light.
2. Brown Leaf Edges
Cause: Too much nitrogen in fertilizer
Solution: Switch to a balanced fertilizer with lower nitrogen levels.
3. Drooping Stems & Flowers
Cause: Overwatering or excessive nitrogen
Solution: Reduce watering and fertilize with a low-nitrogen blend.
4. Pests and Diseases
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Bacterial soft rot (affects rhizomes) and botrytis (gray mold on flowers). Avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation.
Calla Lily Varieties
There are many beautiful cultivars of calla lilies, each offering unique colors:
Zantedeschia aethiopica – Classic white flowers with a yellow spadix (most common).
‘Edge of Night’ – Deep purple to black blooms.
‘Red Alert’ – Fiery red-orange flowers.
‘Picasso’ – White blooms with a purple throat.
‘Sunshine’ – Bright yellow flowers.
Are Calla Lilies Invasive?
Calla lilies are stunning but can become invasive in warm climates, particularly California and Australia, where they spread aggressively. To prevent this, grow them in containers or regularly prune back new growth.
Conclusion
Calla lilies are a breathtaking addition to any garden or home. With proper care, these graceful blooms will flourish year after year. By providing the right soil, water, and temperature conditions, you can enjoy their elegance with minimal effort.
Would you love to add Calla Lilies to your garden? Let us know in the comments!
