Bountiful Gardens

The Architectural Trumpet: Zantedeschia

Calla Lilies are prized for their "spathes"—the colorful, funnel-shaped leaves that surround the actual tiny flowers on the central spike. Indoors, they add a vertical, sculptural element to your decor. They are seasonal performers, typically blooming in late spring or summer, followed by a necessary period of rest.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The "Sunny-ish" Sill: They love bright, filtered light. A spot near an East or West-facing window provides the energy they need to produce those iconic blooms without scorching the leaves.

• The Centerpiece: Their upright, tidy growth makes them perfect for dining tables or sideboards, provided they aren't tucked into a dark corner.

• Away from Drafts: Keep them away from air conditioners or drafty windows, as sudden chills can cause the flower stems to droop.

Care & Maintenance

• Hydration Balance: During their active growing and blooming phase, Calla Lilies like to stay consistently moist. Never let the soil dry out completely, but ensure the pot has excellent drainage to prevent the rhizomes from rotting.

• Grooming: As flowers fade, cut the stems back to the base of the plant. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production and keeps it looking tidy.

• Leaf Cleaning: Wipe the broad, waxy leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and help the plant "breathe."

• The Dormancy Cycle: This is the part most beginners miss! After the plant finishes blooming in late summer, the leaves will naturally start to yellow. This is your signal to stop watering and let the plant "go to sleep" for 2–3 months in a cool, dark spot.

Care & Maintenance Tips

• Watering: Focus on the "moist but not soggy" rule. If the soil feels like a wrung-out sponge, you’re doing it right.

• Potting: Use a pot with at least one large drainage hole. Calla rhizomes are prone to rot if they sit in standing water.

• Humidity: They appreciate moderate humidity. If your home is very dry, place the pot on a pebble tray.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Upside Down" Rule: When you buy Calla Lily rhizomes to plant yourself, look for the "eyes" or the knobby, bumpy side—that's the top! If you plant them upside down, they will still try to grow, but they’ll waste a massive amount of energy trying to find the surface, often resulting in a weak plant that fails to bloom.