Calla lily flowers have long been a symbol of rebirth and resurrection, and are closely associated with the Easter holiday. In addition to the pure white flowers of the traditional species, modern hybrids come in a wide array of colors. The flowers, also known as spathes, bloom for weeks, adding long-lasting color to containers, borders, mass plantings and cut flower arrangements. Grown from rhizomes, this tropical is also sold in florist shops as a houseplant.
While not true lilies, calla lilies do share many of their qualities—they are sensual, graceful, suggestive, and exotic—leaving many gardeners surprised at how easy growing and caring for these flowers can be.
Hybrids prefer Zone 9 or warmer, while Z. aethiopica can be grown in Zones 8-10. Grown as an annual in cooler areas.
Full sun to partial shade; with bright, indirect light being ideal. Dense shade might put a damper on bud count, and scorching midday summer sun can prove equally challenging.
Calla lily is an herbaceous or semi-evergreen perennial grown from rhizomes. Tubular-shaped flowers with pointed tips produce a long, finger-like spadix at the center. Calla lily flowers come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, orange, pink, red, purple, green, and even black. Tall elegant stems rise above broad solid green or speckled leaves.
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms in a diverse range of colors, are a popular choice for gardens. But did you know that you can also grow calla lilies successfully indoors as houseplants?
While they are not true lilies, calla lilies (Zantedeschia species) can thrive indoors with the right care and conditions This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about keeping calla lilies happy inside, from ideal lighting and temperature to troubleshooting common issues.
Providing the Right Light for Indoor Calla Lilies
Lighting is crucial when growing calla lilies indoors These plants need bright, indirect light to support lush foliage growth and abundant blooms
-
Place calla lilies near an east or west facing window where they will receive consistent bright light without risk of afternoon sun scorching the leaves.
-
Avoid direct southern sun exposure as this can burn the foliage. Sheer curtains can help diffuse intense light.
-
If light from a window is insufficient, supplement with grow lights to provide 14-16 hours of daily light.
-
Insufficient light will cause leggy, weak growth and fewer blooms. Monitor light levels and adjust as needed.
Maintaining Ideal Temperature and Humidity
Calla lilies prefer consistent warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C) during the day and above 55°F (13°C) at night. Cool fluctuating temperatures can inhibit growth and blooming.
These plants also appreciate moderate to high humidity around 50-60%. Some helpful tips:
-
Group plants together to raise localized humidity.
-
Use a humidifier nearby.
-
Place pots on pebble trays with water, ensuring pot bases don’t directly contact water.
-
Mist leaves occasionally to boost moisture levels.
Watering Calla Lilies Properly
Proper watering is key for healthy calla lilies. Soil should remain evenly moist but not saturated.
-
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Avoid fully drying out.
-
Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
-
Remove excess water in saucers after watering.
-
Reduce watering frequency and amount during cool winter months when plants are dormant.
-
Drooping or yellow leaves can indicate too much or too little water. Adjust as needed.
Using the Right Potting Mix
Well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil is ideal for container grown calla lilies.
-
Use a quality potting mix containing compost, peat moss, perlite for drainage.
-
Re-pot in fresh soil every 2-3 years as nutrients deplete over time.
-
Carefully divide root masses when re-potting to stimulate new growth.
Fertilizing for Healthy Growth
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer to support lush foliage and maximum blooms.
-
Use fertilizers like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 at half strength concentration.
-
Ensure adequate phosphorus and potassium which promote flowering and overall health.
-
Reduce feeding during dormancy in fall and winter.
-
Flushing soil occasionally prevents buildup of salts.
Caring for Calla Lilies in Winter
As fall approaches, reduce water and fertilizer to allow calla lily plants to enter dormancy. Once they become fully dormant:
-
Cut back on watering to keep soil barely moist, allowing it to dry out between waterings.
-
Place pots in a cool, dark location like a basement or garage around 55-60°F (13-15°C).
-
Avoid fertilizing dormant plants. Resume feeding when new growth emerges in spring.
-
Store bulb-like rhizomes dry and cool if lifting tubers from soil.
-
Discard any diseased or rotting bulb portions before storing rhizomes.
Common Calla Lily Problems and Solutions
Calla lilies can be susceptible to issues like:
-
Root rot from overwatering – Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
-
Pests like spider mites, aphids – Apply insecticidal soap spray. Remove severely infested leaves.
-
Fungal leaf spot – Increase air circulation. Water at soil level to reduce moisture on leaves.
-
Leggy growth – Increase light levels and reduce nitrogen fertilizer.
-
Failure to bloom – Provide adequate sunlight. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
Tips for Successfully Growing Calla Lilies Indoors
Follow these tips to keep calla lilies thriving indoors:
-
Select a location near a bright window but avoid hot direct sun.
-
Maintain warm temperatures and moderate humidity.
-
Water thoroughly when soil surface becomes slightly dry.
-
Use well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly.
-
Monitor for pests like spider mites which can infest indoor plants.
-
Move pots to a cool spot and reduce watering during winter dormancy.
-
Repot every few years in fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
The Takeaway
With the proper care, calla lilies can add graceful elegance to indoor spaces with their distinctive blooms. Their tropical origins mean they require warm temperatures, abundant moisture, and adequate lighting to flourish indoors. Allow plants to go dormant in winter. Address any pest or disease issues promptly. By understanding calla lily needs and diligently tending to them, even beginning houseplant growers can successfully cultivate these charming plants inside.
Do calla lilies come back every year?
This tender perennial will die down or go semi-evergreen in winter come back from the rhizomes in spring in warmer climates. In areas colder than zone 8, the rhizomes can be dug and stored indoors over winter.
HOW TO PLANT CALLA LILIES
“This is what a calla lily rhizome looks like. You want to plant it with the smooth side facing down and the nubby side (pictured) facing up—those nubby points are the growth points!”
— Laura LeBoutillier of Garden Answer. See more in this video.
Plant your calla outdoors any time between February and June (but after danger of frost is past).
Choose a sunny to partially shaded site with amended, well-draining soil.
Bury the tuber-like rhizomes 3 to 4 inches deep in porous soil directly in the garden or in containers.
Calla Lily Care Guide – Picking, Placing, and Parenting Your Plant
FAQ
How long do calla lilies last indoors?
Calla lilies, when grown as indoor houseplants, can last for several months, typically including about 6 weeks of foliage growth followed by 6-8 weeks of blooming.
Do calla lilies do better indoors or outdoors?
Calla lilies are versatile when displayed outdoors in beds, borders, or containers. They can also be grown indoors as a houseplant. Here are some ideas on how to use and display calla lilies: Mass calla lilies in a bed or border for a showy display.