How to Grow Red Calla Lily
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Red Calla Lily
Zantedeschia rehmannii
flowerZantedeschia rehmannii is a tender perennial calla lily native to South Africa, prized for its striking deep red to pink spathes that surround a yellow spadix. Unlike common white calla lilies, this variety produces vibrant colored flowers on compact plants with narrow, lanceolate leaves. It's popular as a cut flower and for ornamental container growing in temperate climates.
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Example Red Calla Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red 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 Red 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 10-11; can be grown as a container plant in cooler zones
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Get my Red Calla Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Planting
2-4 weeksRhizomes are bare or just beginning to break dormancy with small shoots visible
Plant rhizomes in early spring; keep soil lightly moist to encourage sprouting; maintain warm temperatures (60-70°F)
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksLeaves emerge and develop; plant grows tall with narrow lance-shaped green foliage; no flowers yet
Maintain consistent moisture; provide bright indirect light; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer; maintain humidity
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksFlowering stems begin to elongate from the plant center; small buds form at stem tips
Continue regular watering and feeding; increase light exposure slightly; support tall stems if needed; avoid overwatering foliage
Flowering
4-8 weeksSpathes unfurl revealing deep red to pink tubular flowers surrounding yellow spadix; flowers last 2-4 weeks
Maintain consistent moisture; continue fertilizing; remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms; provide support for heavy flowers
Post-Flowering/Dormancy
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and fall; foliage begins to yellow and die back; plant enters dormancy
Gradually reduce watering; stop fertilizing; allow foliage to completely yellow before removing; rhizomes can be stored cool and dry or left in place in warm climates
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray foliage with water; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plants
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; treat with neem oil every 7-10 days
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Prune affected stems; spray with horticultural oil; apply insecticidal soap; maintain good air circulation
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh soil; remove affected roots; use fungicide if severe
Uses
Not for consumption
CulinaryZantedeschia species are toxic to humans and animals if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals. They should never be eaten or prepared for consumption. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdRed calla lilies are prized by florists and gardeners for elegant floral arrangements, wedding bouquets, and high-end decorative displays. Their striking color and sculptural form make them a sophisticated choice for interior arrangements. [source]
Floral design and event decoration
CraftThe vibrant red spathes and elegant form of Zantedeschia rehmannii make it highly desirable for wedding arrangements, formal events, and luxury floral designs. Its color intensity and architectural quality elevate contemporary floral compositions. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeWhile not primarily a pollinator plant, the flowers attract some insects and can provide nectar sources in ornamental gardens, contributing to garden biodiversity. [source]
Traditional medicine (external use only)
MedicinalIn some traditional African medicine systems, Zantedeschia species have been used topically for skin conditions, though modern use is minimal and precautions against skin irritation from oxalates are essential. [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 in early morning when spathes are fully open; use sharp, clean scissors; cut stems at a 45-degree angle; place immediately in cool water; flowers last 1-2 weeks in a vase; for longer vase life, change water every 2-3 days and remove lower foliage
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Zantedeschia rehmannii is the red calla lily native to a small region of South Africa and is named after botanist Karl Rehmann. Unlike the white calla lily commonly seen, this species features distinctly colored spathes ranging from deep burgundy to coral pink.
- 🌱 The 'flower' of a calla lily is not actually a true flower—the colorful spathe is a modified leaf, and the true flowers are tiny and arranged on the yellow spadix. This unusual floral structure has made the calla lily a symbol of elegance and sophistication in floral art.
- 🌱 Zantedeschia rehmannii is more compact than its white relative (Z. aethiopica) and performs better in container cultivation, making it an excellent choice for patios, conservatories, and greenhouse growing in temperate regions.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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