Floral Elegance, Calla Lilies

Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are renowned for their exquisite beauty and elegance, making them a popular choice among gardeners and florists alike. Originating from South Africa, these graceful flowers have found their way into gardens and floral arrangements around the world. Although they are called calla lilies, they are not true lilies or even closely related. They are a type of aroid.

Growing calla lilies can be a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned gardeners, as their vibrant colors and unique shapes add a touch of sophistication to any landscape. The first calla lily I grew was a yellow calla lily that I bought at a big box store. It has grown bigger each year, both in leaves and flowers. 

Numerous cultivars are available, each with its own distinct colors, sizes, and shapes. The Calla Lily comes in multiple sizes and colors, including white, yellow, purple, pink, red, and black. Some popular varieties include the classic white ‘White Giant,’ the vibrant pink ‘Pink Mist,’ and the striking black ‘Black Magic.’ Consider factors such as local climate, soil conditions, and the intended use of the flowers when selecting the perfect variety for your garden. Calla lilies are useful in many landscape types including tropical-style gardens where their large leaves and colorful flowers shine. I have two of the white ‘Zantedeschia aethiopica,’ which can grow quite large to over 5 feet tall!

Calla lilies thrive in well-draining, rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Choose a location with partial shade to protect the delicate blooms from intense sunlight. Plant the rhizomes, which resemble bulbs, approximately 2 to 4 inches deep and about 12 to 18 inches apart. Ensure that the growing area provides good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Proper watering is essential for the health of calla lilies. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season and flowering period. However, it’s crucial to avoid waterlogged conditions, as calla lilies are susceptible to rot. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature.

Fertilize calla lilies regularly during the growing season, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Begin feeding when the shoots emerge and continue every 4-6 weeks until the end of the flowering period. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers.

In USDA Hardiness Zones below Zone 7, calla lilies are typically grown as tender perennials or treated as annuals. If you want to overwinter them, lift the rhizomes after the first frost, allow them to dry for a day or two, and then store them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. A heavy mulch of shredded bark in the fall after a freeze has killed the foliage will help with overwintering in colder areas.

Calla lilies are used in art and floral arrangements as symbols of purity, sympathy, beauty, rebirth, and union. As such, they are appropriate for any occasion, whether it’s a sophisticated wedding bouquet or sincere condolences. Mexican artist, Diego Rivera used them in his paintings as symbols of the abundance of life and death in Mexico. The flowers are often depicted in images of indigenous peasant women and girls.

Growing calla lilies add a touch of sophistication and grace to any garden or floral arrangement. With the right care and attention to their specific needs, these exquisite flowers will reward you with stunning blooms throughout the growing season. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, cultivating calla lilies is a delightful journey that brings elegance and beauty to your outdoor space.