Introduction
There is nothing quite like the feeling of watching a calla lily unfurl its elegant, architectural blooms for the first time in early summer. These plants bring an immediate sophisticated flair to any backyard, turning a standard garden bed into a refined, private oasis. At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you experience the joy of growing these canna lilies and their graceful cousins, the calla lilies, in your own landscape. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a small sunny balcony, these plants offer incredible rewards for very little effort.
In this guide, we will focus on everything you need to know about the calla lily. We will cover how to choose the right varieties, where to plant them for the best results, and how to care for them so they return year after year. Understanding these basics is the simplest way to ensure your garden stays vibrant from midsummer through the first frost. Calla lilies are a rewarding choice for gardeners of all skill levels who want bold color and architectural height. For a broader overview of similar summer favorites, see All About Cannas.
Understanding the Calla Lily Perennial Bulb
While many gardeners call them "bulbs," calla lilies actually grow from thick, underground stems known as rhizomes. Belonging to the genus Zantedeschia within the Araceae (arum family), they are not actually true lilies. It is also important to distinguish them from Calla palustris, a different wetland plant, and the much larger canna lily. A rhizome is a specialized storage organ that holds energy for the plant. It grows horizontally just beneath the soil surface, sending out roots from the bottom and new shoots from the "eyes" on top. Because they store so much energy, callas are incredibly fast growers once the weather warms up.
In tropical climates, these plants are true perennials that stay in the ground all year. In most parts of the United States, we treat them as tender perennials. This means they can live for many years if they are protected from freezing temperatures. If you live in a warm region, they will come back on their own. If you live in a cooler region, you can easily dig them up and store them for the winter. This versatility is part of why they are so popular in American gardens.
Calla Lily Flower Structure
The beauty of the calla lily lies in its unique botanical form. What most people consider the "flower" is actually a spathe, a large, flared bract that wraps around a central spike called the spadix. The actual tiny flowers are located on the spadix itself. The classic Zantedeschia aethiopica, or common white calla lily, is the most recognizable species, but modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. Most varieties offer stunning, brightly colored flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, and deep purple. However, the foliage is often just as decorative, with some varieties featuring bright green leaves or leaves flecked with translucent white spots.
Choosing the Right Location for Success
Getting the location right is the most important step in growing healthy calla lilies. These plants crave two things above all else: heat and consistent moisture. When you are picking a spot in your yard, look for an area that balances light and protection from the wind.
Sunlight Requirements
For the most vibrant flowers and the strongest stems, your calla lilies need at least six hours of sun. In cooler northern climates, they thrive in full sun. However, if you live in an extremely hot climate, such as the desert Southwest, providing partial shade or afternoon shade can actually help the foliage from getting scorched and keep the blooms lasting longer.
Soil and Drainage
Calla lilies are not overly picky about soil type, but they do best in soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is very sandy or heavy clay, you can improve it by adding a few inches of compost or well-rotted manure before planting. This helps the soil hold the right amount of moisture while still allowing excess water to drain away.
Unlike many other bulbs that prefer to stay dry, calla lilies are quite thirsty. Once they are actively growing, they prefer consistently moist soil. However, before they sprout, the rhizomes can rot if they sit in cold, soggy soil. Make sure your planting area has good drainage so the rhizomes stay healthy while they are waking up from dormancy.
Key Takeaway: Choose a sunny to partially shaded spot with rich, moist soil to give your calla lilies the best possible start. Moisture and light are the "fuel" that drives their elegant flowering.
When to Plant Your Calla Lily Rhizomes
Timing is everything when it comes to planting calla lilies. Because they are tropical plants, they have no tolerance for frost. If you plant them too early in cold, damp soil, the rhizomes may simply sit and rot before they ever have a chance to grow.
We recommend waiting to plant your calla lilies until the danger of frost has completely passed. A good rule of thumb is to wait until your soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. If you have already planted your tomatoes or peppers, it is usually safe to plant your callas. In most parts of the US, this happens between late April and early June.
If you live in a northern climate with a short growing season, you can give your plants a head start. About four to six weeks before the last frost, plant your rhizomes in pots indoors. Keep them in a warm, sunny window and water them lightly. By the time the weather warms up, you will have established plants ready to go into the garden, which results in earlier blooms.
How to Plant Calla Lily Perennial Bulbs
Planting calla lilies is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. Because the rhizomes are sturdy, they are easy to handle and difficult to plant "wrong."
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Prepare the hole: Dig a hole about 3 to 4 inches deep. If you are planting multiple calla lilies, space them 6 to 12 inches apart. Large clumps will eventually need more space, but this initial spacing allows for a full display.
- Position the rhizome: Look for the "eyes" or small bumps on the rhizome. These are the growth points. Lay the rhizome horizontally in the hole with the eyes facing upward. If you cannot tell which side is up, don’t worry—the plant will figure it out and grow toward the light.
- Cover with soil: Fill the hole back in with soil and gently press down with your hands to remove any large air pockets.
- Water lightly: Give the area a light watering to settle the soil. Avoid overwatering at this stage; you want the soil to be moist but not saturated until you see green shoots poking through the ground.
Once you see the first leaves appearing, you can begin to water more regularly. Calla lily growth is steady—once the heat of summer hits, they will quickly establish their lush foliage and begin preparing their flower spikes.
What to Do Next
- Check the weather forecast to ensure no late frosts are expected.
- Amend your soil with compost to provide a nutrient boost.
- Mark the spot where you planted them so you don't accidentally dig them up before they sprout.
- Increase watering once the first green shoots are visible.
Summer Care for Vibrant Blooms
Calla lilies are relatively low-maintenance, but a little bit of attention during the peak of summer will keep them looking their best. If you provide them with enough water and food, they will reward you with a non-stop display of color.
Watering and Mulching
Calla lilies are "hungry" for water. During the hottest weeks of July and August, they may need to be watered frequently to keep the soil from drying out completely. If the leaves start to look wilted, it is a sign the plant is thirsty. Adding a two-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plants is a great way to keep moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from competing for nutrients.
Fertilizing for Success
Because calla lilies produce such lush foliage and distinct flowers in a single season, they benefit from regular feeding. We suggest applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Once the plants are established, you can follow up with a monthly application of a liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus to encourage more blooms. This ensures the plant has the energy to keep producing those exotic flowers all summer long.
Deadheading and Pruning
"Deadheading" is the process of removing spent flowers. On a calla lily, the flowers bloom individually on single stalks. When a spathe begins to turn green or brown and wilt, you can simply cut the stem back near the base of the plant. This keeps the plant looking tidy and encourages it to put its energy into new flower production or rhizome health rather than seed development.
If a leaf becomes yellowed or starts to look ragged, do not be afraid to trim it off. Calla lilies are very resilient. You can even cut a plant back significantly if it looks unhealthy, and with a little water and fertilizer, it will often recover beautifully.
Key Takeaway: Consistency is key. Regular water and monthly feeding are the two simple secrets to keeping your calla lilies lush and productive until autumn.
Top Calla Lily Varieties to Consider
At Longfield Gardens, we offer a selection of summer-blooming plants that have been tested for performance and beauty. Choosing the right calla lily variety depends on the color palette and height you want to achieve.
Classic and Elegant Varieties
If you want a traditional look or a bold backdrop for other flowers, look for Tall Cannas or large-form white calla lilies.
- 'Zantedeschia aethiopica': The classic white calla lily. Known for its large, pure white spathes and deep green, arrow-shaped leaves. It is a vigorous grower that adds a sophisticated touch to the garden and is a favorite for cut flowers.
- 'Red King Humbert': While technically a canna, this is a classic favorite known for its dark, bronze-toned foliage and bright red flowers. The contrast between the dark leaves and the fiery blooms is truly spectacular for those who love bold tropical colors.
- Pretoria](/products/canna-pretoria): Also known as 'Bengal Tiger,' this variety features striped leaves that provide interest even when the flowers are not the main focus.
Colorful Hybrid Varieties
For containers or the front of a garden bed, Short Cannas and hybrid calla lilies are an excellent choice. These typically stay between 12 and 24 inches tall.
- 'City of Portland': This City of Portland variety produces soft pink blooms over bright green foliage. It is a wonderful choice for adding a more delicate color palette to a sunny patio.
- 'The President': A time-tested The President with traditional green leaves and large, scarlet-red flowers. It stays at a manageable height, making it perfect for smaller spaces.
- Colored Callas: Look for named cultivars in striking shades like 'Picasso' (purple and white), 'Sunshine' (bright yellow), or 'Captain Romance' (deep pink). These hybrids often feature spotted foliage that adds extra texture to the garden.
Using Calla Lilies in Your Landscape Design
Calla lilies are incredibly versatile in the garden. Because they have such a strong vertical presence and distinctive flower shape, they can be used as "architectural" plants that provide structure to your design.
Container Gardening and Indoor Use
Calla lilies are excellent for large pots and planters. A single calla can serve as the "thriller" in a mixed container, surrounded by "fillers" like lobelia or "spillers" like dichondra. When planting in pots, make sure the container has drainage holes and is at least 10 to 12 inches in diameter. Calla lilies also make wonderful indoor houseplants if placed in a very bright, sunny window with consistent moisture. For more container tips, see How to Grow Summer Bulbs in Containers.
Companion Planting
Calla lilies look best when paired with plants that have different textures. The broad, smooth leaves and sleek spathes provide a great contrast to the fine, feathery foliage of ornamental grasses or the delicate blooms of perennials like salvia. They also pair beautifully with other tropical-looking plants like elephant ears, hibiscus, and caladiums.
Managing Pests and Common Challenges
One of the reasons we love calla lilies is that they are generally very healthy. However, there are a few things to keep an eye on to ensure your plants stay in top shape.
Common Pests
In some regions, you might notice aphids or spider mites on the underside of the leaves. These can usually be managed with a strong blast of water from a hose or an application of insecticidal soap. Slugs and snails can sometimes be attracted to the young, tender shoots in the spring. You can manage this by keeping the area around the base of the plants free of debris.
Leaf Scorch and Toxicity
If the edges of your calla lily leaves look brown and crispy, it is usually a sign of environmental stress, such as not getting enough water or being hit by strong, drying winds. Increasing your watering schedule will usually solve this issue quickly.
It is important to note that all parts of the calla lily (Zantedeschia) are toxic if ingested by humans or pets, including cats and dogs. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth and digestive tract. Always plant them in a location where curious pets or children are supervised.
Overwintering: Keeping Your Perennials Year After Year
A common question we receive is: "Will my calla lilies come back next year?" The answer depends on your climate.
Perennial Success in Warm Zones
If you live in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10, calla lilies are generally hardy and can stay in the ground year-round. If you are not sure whether your area falls into this range, the Hardiness Zone Map can help. After the first frost kills the foliage, simply cut the stalks down to about two or three inches above the ground. You can add a layer of mulch over the top for extra protection.
Lifting and Storing in Cold Zones
If you live in Zone 7 or colder, the ground will likely freeze deep enough to kill the rhizomes. To keep your favorite varieties, you will need to "lift" them for the winter. This is a simple process similar to Storing Canna Lily Bulbs Over Winter: A Simple Guide.
- Wait for the frost: Let the first light frost blacken the foliage. This sends a signal to the plant to go dormant.
- Cut them back: Cut the stalks down to about 2 inches.
- Dig them up: Use a garden fork to carefully lift the rhizomes out of the ground.
- Clean and dry: Shake off excess soil and let them sit in a dry, shaded area for a few days to cure.
- Store for winter: Place the rhizomes in a cardboard box with peat moss or vermiculite. Store the box in a cool, dark place (45°F to 55°F) like a basement.
Dividing Calla Lilies for More Plants
One of the best things about the calla lily is that it multiplies over time. Dividing these clumps is an easy way to get more plants for free. For more on multiplying clumps, see How to Split Canna Bulbs: A Guide to More Flowers.
The best time to divide calla lilies is in the spring before planting. If you have stored your rhizomes over the winter, take them out of storage and look for the individual sections. Each section that you plant should have at least one or two "eyes" (growth points). You can use a clean, sharp knife to cut them into pieces, ensuring each piece has a healthy growth point.
By dividing your calla lilies every few years, you prevent the clumps from becoming overcrowded, which ensures more vigorous growth and better flowering.
Conclusion
Growing calla lilies is a rewarding way to add high-impact color and an elegant feel to your home landscape. Whether you treat them as a permanent fixture in a warm climate or a seasonal guest in a northern garden, their ease of care and reliable performance make them a favorite for us at Longfield Gardens. By following the simple rules of sun, water, and proper planting depth, you can enjoy a stunning display of flowers and foliage that lasts for months.
- Plant rhizomes in sun or partial shade after the soil has warmed to 60°F.
- Provide consistent moisture and monthly fertilizer high in phosphorus.
- Deadhead spent flowers to keep the plant tidy and encourage growth.
- In cold climates, lift and store the rhizomes in a cool, dry place for the winter.
We are confident that once you experience the bold beauty of calla lilies, they will become a staple in your summer garden. Start with a few of our favorite varieties this season and watch your garden transform into a tropical retreat.
FAQ
Are calla lilies true lilies?
No, calla lilies are not true lilies. They belong to the genus Zantedeschia in the Araceae (arum) family. They are distinct from true lilies (Lilium) and also different from canna lilies.
Are calla lilies perennials or annuals?
Calla lilies are technically tropical perennials. In warm climates (Zones 8-10), they stay in the ground and return every year. In colder climates (Zones 3-7), they will not survive the winter outdoors, so gardeners either treat them as annuals or dig up the rhizomes to store them indoors for the winter.
Are calla lilies toxic to pets?
Yes, calla lilies are toxic to both cats and dogs. They contain calcium oxalate crystals which cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting if chewed or swallowed.
How deep should I plant calla lily bulbs?
Calla lily rhizomes should be planted approximately 3 to 4 inches deep. This depth provides enough protection for the roots while still allowing the sun to warm the soil around the growth points, which helps the plant sprout more quickly.
Can calla lilies grow in pots?
Yes, calla lilies are excellent container plants. Ensure your container has drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix. Container plants require more frequent watering and fertilizing than those in the ground.
When will my calla lilies start to bloom?
Calla lilies typically begin blooming in mid-summer, usually about 60 to 90 days after planting. The exact timing depends on the weather and the variety. Once they start blooming, they will continue to produce flowers for several weeks.
