How to Grow Calla Lily

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Calla Lily

Zantedeschia

flower

Calla lilies are elegant flowering plants known for their distinctive funnel-shaped spathes (modified leaves) that surround a central spike of tiny flowers. Available in white, pink, red, yellow, and purple varieties, they are popular as cut flowers and garden ornamentals. These plants grow from rhizomes and can thrive in both garden beds and containers.

Looking for a specific variety?

Zantedeschia aethiopica Zantedeschia elliottiana Zantedeschia rehmannii Picasso Black Magic Flame

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Example Calla Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Calla Lily
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
First Calla Lily blooms
Around Jul 16

≈ 90 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Calla Lily dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Partial shade to full sun; in hot climates, afternoon shade is beneficial; needs at least 4-6 hours of light daily

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season; reduce watering after flowering and during dormancy; some species (Z. aethiopica) tolerate wet conditions and can be grown as marginal aquatic plants

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Spacing: 12-18 inches

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Days to maturity: 90-180 days from planting to first flowers

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Planting depth: 2-4 inches; rhizomes should be planted with the growing tip pointing upward

Soil

Type: Well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter

pH: 6.0-6.8

Amendments:

Compost Peat moss Aged manure Perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 7-11; in colder regions, grow as annuals or dig up and store rhizomes over winter

7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Dormancy/Sprouting

2-4 weeks

Rhizomes are planted and begin to develop roots and shoots; no visible foliage yet

Keep soil warm (65-75°F optimal) and lightly moist; ensure good drainage to prevent rot; wait patiently for emergence

Vegetative Growth

4-8 weeks

Heart-shaped leaves emerge and expand; plant develops several leaves on erect petioles; no flowers yet

Water regularly and maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; remove any diseased leaves; ensure adequate light for leaf development

Bud Formation & Flowering

3-6 weeks per bloom; successive flushes possible with ongoing care

Flower buds appear at the base of the leaves; elegant spathes unfurl in whites, pinks, reds, yellows, or purples; tiny true flowers cluster on the central spadix

Continue regular watering and feeding; provide support if flowers become heavy; deadhead spent flowers only if not saving seeds; enjoy blooms indoors as cut flowers

Seed Development & Decline

3-4 weeks

Spathes may develop seeds if pollinated; foliage gradually yellows and senescence begins; plant naturally enters dormancy

Allow foliage to die back naturally to replenish rhizomes; reduce watering gradually; stop fertilizing; let the plant rest in a cool location

Dormancy

2-4 months

All foliage has died back; rhizomes are fully dormant underground in cool conditions

In cold climates, dig up rhizomes, dry them, store in cool (50-60°F), dark location with minimal moisture; in warm zones, leave in ground or water sparingly; check periodically for rot

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Ferns Hostas Astilbe Daylilies Liriope Carex Heuchera Japanese anemone

Avoid planting near:

Plants preferring dry conditions Competitive shallow-rooted perennials

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase humidity; ensure good air circulation
Spray with strong water jet; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; introduce natural predators like ladybugs
and (Pythium, Phytophthora, Botrytis)
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove and destroy infected rhizomes; apply fungicide if needed; store rhizomes in dry conditions
Plant in well-draining soil; avoid wounding rhizomes; disinfect tools; remove infected plants promptly
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; ensure good air circulation

Uses

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Ornamental & Floral Cuisine Garnish

Culinary

While not typically eaten in quantity, calla lily flowers are used as sophisticated edible garnishes and decorative elements in high-end culinary presentations. Their striking form adds visual drama to plates and floral-themed dishes. [source]

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Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements

Household

Calla lilies are prized as premium cut flowers in wedding bouquets, sympathy arrangements, and decorative displays. They are long-lasting in water and highly valued by florists for their elegant, sculptural appearance. [source]

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Dried Flowers & Botanical Art

Craft

The distinctive spathes can be dried for use in dried flower arrangements, pressed flower art, and botanical crafts. They retain their form and color well when properly dried. [source]

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Pollinator & Insect Attraction

Wildlife

Calla lilies attract various pollinators and beneficial insects with their spadix flowers and provide nectar sources during their blooming period. They support garden biodiversity. [source]

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Traditional & Ethnobotanical Use

Medicinal

In various traditional medicine systems, calla lilies (particularly certain Zantedeschia species) have been used in topical preparations for skin conditions and wounds, though clinical evidence is limited. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals and should be used cautiously. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Cut flowers when the spathe is fully open and the spadix shows color; cut stems with a sharp knife early in the morning; place in cool water; calla lilies can last 10-14 days in a vase. For rhizome division and propagation, dig up plants after foliage dies back in autumn (or early spring in frost-free zones); gently separate rhizomes and ensure each section has at least one growth point; dust with fungicide and replant immediately or store until spring.

Fun Facts

🌱 Despite their common name 'calla lily,' Zantedeschia are not true lilies; they belong to the Araceae family (arum family) along with arums and anthuriums.
🌱 The striking 'flower' is actually a spathe (modified leaf), not a true flower—the tiny true flowers cluster on the central spadix, making the plant a botanical marvel of disguise.
🌱 Calla lilies were introduced to Europe in the 18th century and became particularly popular in Victorian times, where they symbolized elegance, rebirth, and natural beauty in the language of flowers.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Deadhead Full Sun Partial Shade

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