Calla Lily
Zantedeschia
AKA: Arum Lily
Calla lilies are elegant flowering plants grown from rhizomes. Indoors, they require bright indirect light, consistent moisture, and a defined rest period after blooming.
Care snapshot
Calla Lily Care at a Glance
Calla lilies are graceful flowering plants prized for their sculptural blooms and lush green foliage.
Best For
- Bright rooms
- Indoor flowering displays
- Seasonal color
- Decorative plant lovers
Not Great For
- Low light rooms
- Homes with pets
- Those wanting year-round foliage
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light is essential for flowering. Too little light results in foliage growth without blooms.
How to Water a Calla Lily
Water regularly during growth to keep soil evenly moist. Once flowering finishes and leaves yellow, gradually reduce watering.
Watering Tips
- Never allow the pot to sit in water.
- Reduce watering during dormancy.
- Resume watering when new shoots appear.
Dormancy Explained
After flowering, calla lilies naturally enter dormancy. Leaves yellow and die back—this is normal and necessary for reblooming.
Flowering Tips
Cool nights, bright light, and regular feeding encourage strong blooms. Avoid excess nitrogen.
How to Propagate Calla Lily
- Remove plant from pot after dormancy.
- Gently separate rhizomes with visible growth points.
- Allow cuts to dry briefly.
- Replant in fresh soil and resume watering when growth begins.
Calla Lily Problems (Fast Fix Guide)
Cause: Low light or lack of dormancy
Fix: Increase light and allow a rest period
Cause: Dormancy or overwatering
Fix: Reduce watering and allow natural dieback
Cause: Root rot
Fix: Remove rot and repot in dry, fresh soil
Pet Safety Warning
- Calla lilies are toxic to cats and dogs.
- Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Blooms typically last several weeks under good conditions.
Yes. A rest period is essential for future flowering.
They can be grown indoors, but will cycle through growth and dormancy.
No. They are toxic if ingested.
Pet warning
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Video tips
Extra reading
FAQ
Blooms typically last several weeks under good conditions.
Yes. A rest period is essential for future flowering.
They can be grown indoors, but will cycle through growth and dormancy.
No. They are toxic if ingested.