Calla General Information
Calla Lilies are a popular flower for celebrations. A florists’ favorite, the elegant blossoms are stunning in bridal bouquets and cut flower arrangements. An upright funnel-shaped, petal swirls around a single yellow, finger-like spike in the center covered in tiny flowers. Calla Lilies are native to South Africa.
Calla Plant Care
Hardy in zones 8-10. Calla Lilies can be left in the ground in zones 8-10 but the plants may need to be divided every few years to keep them blooming well. Plant 3-4” deep with the “eyes” (growing tips) facing up in well-drained soil about 6” apart on center. Cover with soil and water sparingly until leaves begin to appear, then you may begin watering more generously; however, do not overwater. Avoid water on top of the leaves to keep foliage as dry as possible. If growing in containers, use a quality growing mix rather than garden soil. Containers will look best planted just 4” apart. Shoots usually begin to appear in approximately 2 weeks. Fertilize with a time-release balanced fertilizer such as Osmocote® when plants start to show growth. Lift tubers in the fall in zones 3-7 after the leaves have died back or after the first frost. Trim off the foliage leaving an inch or two of the stems attached. Cure in a warm dry place for several days and then put them into a box with dry peat moss in a cool, dry basement.
