Calla lilies are excellent houseplants, best for beds, borders, bouquets and flower arrangements. Calla lilies are falsely called as lilies, but are not true lilies.

Calla lilies have long-petioled, basal leaves arising from a thick rhizome. The inflorescence, on a leafless flower stalk, consists of a spathe and spadix. The spathe, a large, flaring, trumpet-shaped bract, surrounds the spadix which is covered with tiny flowers.

         Facts About Calla lilies

• Calla lily is a perennial bulb.
• Calla lilies grow to a height of 1 1/2 to 4 feet.
• The Calla lily leaves are 1 1/2' long, rich green.
• Blooming time of Calla lilies is late spring.
• The word Calla comes from the Greek term for beautiful.
• The Calla lily roots are the most dangerous part of the plant.
  
  
   

  Growing Calla lilies

  • Plant Calla Lilies deeply for their good size.
  • Plant them at 4 inches deep, spacing each bulb 12 inches apart.
  • Start bulbs indoors in late winter and transplant them in the spring when danger of frost has passed.
  • Apply a bulb fertilizer every month during the active growing season.
  • Most Calla Lilies need a rest period after flowering.
  • Let the leaves die back and let plants rest for 2 to 3 months.
  • Then again resume watering to encourage new growth.

  Calla lilies care

  • In cooler areas, take the rhizomes after first frost, clean the bulbs, if there is soil.
  • Dry them in the direct sun for a few days.
  • Store in a dry location that remains between 50 and 60 degrees F.
  • Plant the calla lily bulbs in spring after the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed.
  • Fertilize monthly, and keep well watered.