How to Grow Calla Lily
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Calla Lily
Zantedeschia aethiopica
flowerCalla lilies are elegant flowering plants known for their distinctive funnel-shaped spathes in white, pink, red, yellow, or purple, surrounding a prominent spadix. They produce striking, waxy flowers that are popular in floral arrangements and ornamental gardens. These rhizomatous perennials offer dramatic architectural interest and long-lasting blooms.
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Example Calla Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Calla Lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Calla Lily blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; can be grown as annuals or container plants in cooler zones
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Dormancy/Planting
2-3 weeksRhizomes are planted and begin to sprout small shoots and root development underground
Choose firm, disease-free rhizomes. Plant in spring after frost danger passes. Keep soil warm (65-75°F) to encourage sprouting
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksShoots emerge and leaves develop, becoming the large, glossy, arrow-shaped foliage characteristic of calla lilies
Provide consistent moisture and partial shade. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at the stem bases and begin to develop and elongate
Maintain steady watering and feeding schedule. Provide adequate light for bud development. Support tall stems with stakes if needed
Flowering
4-8 weeks or longerDramatic spathes unfurl, revealing the prominent spadix. Blooms appear in white, pink, red, yellow, or purple depending on variety
Continue regular watering and feeding. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Provide support for heavy flower stems
Post-Bloom/Dormancy
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and blooming ceases. Foliage begins to yellow and die back naturally
Reduce watering gradually as foliage dies back. Stop fertilizing. Allow rhizomes to rest in cool, dry conditions. In cold zones, dig up rhizomes for winter storage
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; maintain humidity to discourage infestations
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Spray with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; introduce ladybugs or parasitic wasps
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Remove affected flowers; use blue sticky traps; apply insecticidal soap or spinosad
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and
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering; remove infected tissue; apply copper fungicide
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Improve drainage; reduce watering; repot in fresh, sterile soil; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Edible tubers (select varieties only)
CulinarySome calla lily varieties produce edible tubers that can be cooked like potatoes, though they are rarely consumed in modern cuisine. Tubers require careful preparation and cooking to remove oxalates. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdCalla lilies are highly prized as premium cut flowers for weddings, funerals, and formal arrangements due to their elegant, sculptural form and long vase life. [source]
Wedding and event decorations
CraftTheir sophisticated appearance and availability in multiple colors make calla lilies popular choices for bridal bouquets, corsages, and decorative displays at formal events. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeWhile not a primary pollinator plant, calla lilies attract bees and other insects to their spadix, providing some ecological benefit in gardens. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn traditional medicine systems, calla lily has been used to address various ailments, though scientific evidence is limited and the plant contains oxalates that can be toxic if not properly prepared. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Calla lilies are ornamental flowers, not harvested for food. For cut flowers, harvest stems in early morning when blooms are fully open but still firm. Cut stems at an angle just above soil level. They last 1-2 weeks in a vase with fresh water changed every 2-3 days. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and redirect energy to future flowers.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite their common name, calla lilies are not true lilies—they belong to the Araceae family (arum family) and are more closely related to anthuriums and philodendrons
- 🌱 Calla lilies symbolize rebirth and resurrection in many cultures, making them popular for both weddings and funeral arrangements
- 🌱 The 'flower' of a calla lily is actually a modified leaf called a spathe that surrounds the true flowers, which are tiny and clustered on the central spadix
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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