Key Features

• Growth Habit:
  • Upright, clump-forming bulbous perennial
  • Typically grows 12–36 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide, depending on variety
  • Produces elegant flower stalks above lush foliage
• Bloom Color:
  • White, yellow, pink, orange, red, purple, burgundy, or near-black depending on variety
• Fragrance:
  • Light, sweet fragrance on some varieties; others may have little to no scent
• Fruit Flavor:
  • Not grown for edible fruit production
• Culinary Uses:
  • No culinary uses
  • All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested
• Medicinal & Traditional Uses:
  • Historically used in limited traditional applications after specialized preparation
  • Primarily cultivated today as an ornamental flowering plant
• Wildlife Attraction & Pest Resistance:
  • Attracts pollinators when in bloom
  • Deer resistant
  • Rabbit resistant
  • Generally resistant to most pests and diseases
  • May occasionally attract aphids, slugs, or spider mites
• Planting Zones: USDA Zones 8–10 as a perennial
  • Can be grown as a summer bulb in Zones 3–7 with winter storage
• Sun Preferences:
  • Full sun to partial shade
  • Benefits from afternoon shade in hot southern climates
• Drought Tolerance:
  • Moderate once established
  • Prefers evenly moist soil during active growth

Planting Instructions (From a Bulb into the Ground)

1. Choose the Location

• Select a location with fertile, well-drained soil.
• Choose an area receiving 4–8 hours of sunlight daily.

2. Prepare the Soil

• Loosen soil 8–10 inches deep.
• Mix in compost or aged organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

3. Plant the Bulb

• Dig a hole 3–4 inches deep.
• Place the bulb horizontally with the growing points or eyes facing upward.
• Cover with soil and gently firm the planting area.

4. Water Thoroughly

• Water immediately after planting.
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth.

5. Mulch

• Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Spacing

• Space bulbs 12–18 inches apart depending on mature size.

7. Ongoing Care

• Water regularly throughout the growing season.
• Fertilize monthly with a balanced flower fertilizer during active growth for best flowering performance.

Overwintering Calla Lilies

In-Ground Plants (Zones 8–10)

• Plants can remain in the ground year-round.
• After flowering, allow foliage to naturally yellow and die back.
• Apply a light mulch layer during winter to protect bulbs from temperature fluctuations.

Cold Climate Overwintering (Zones 3–7)

1. Allow foliage to be damaged by the first light frost.
2. Cut back foliage to 2–3 inches above the bulb.
3. Carefully dig up the bulbs.
4. Brush away excess soil and allow bulbs to cure in a dry, shaded location for several days.
5. Store bulbs in peat moss, vermiculite, or dry wood shavings.
6. Keep in a cool, dry location between 45–55°F until spring.

Container-Grown Plants

• Move containers indoors before hard frost.
• Reduce watering as plants enter dormancy.
• Store dormant containers in a cool, frost-free location until spring.

Spring Replanting

• Replant stored bulbs outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed.

Calla Lilies are among the most elegant flowering bulbs available, offering stunning trumpet-shaped blooms, lush foliage, and months of vibrant color. Their versatility, easy-care nature, and exceptional performance in gardens, containers, and floral arrangements make them a timeless favorite for gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike.