Description
Introduction to Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ (Zantedeschia Hybrids)
Calla Lilies, also known as Zantedeschia, are loved for their elegance and beauty, often symbolising purity and new beginnings. Although they are called lilies, they belong to a different plant family, the Araceae family. The name ‘Calla’ comes from a Greek word that means beauty, perfectly describing the graceful look of these flowers.
Originating from southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Swaziland, and Lesotho, Calla Lilies thrive in the marshy, well-drained conditions of their native habitat. Over time, they have spread across the globe, becoming cherished additions to gardens and homes worldwide.
Zantedeschia includes several types, such as Zantedeschia aethiopica (commonly called Arum Lilies) and various hybrids like the ‘Crystal Blush’ variety. These hybrids prefer full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to produce good blooms. In their first year, they typically produce 3 to 7 flowers, and as they establish, they grow stronger and more vigorous, often producing additional plants, or ‘pups,’ within a year or two. Unlike Zantedeschia aethiopica, these hybrids are generally smaller and multiply less readily. They thrive in containers, offering versatility for various garden designs or indoor pots, and are well-suited to cooler to tropical climates, where they can also flourish in garden beds.
The ‘Crystal Blush’ variety is especially admired for its elegant white flowers that gradually develop a soft pink blush as they mature, adding a subtle yet captivating touch of colour to any setting. With its long-lasting blooms, ‘Crystal Blush’ is perfect for garden beds, containers, and beautiful cut flower arrangements. Additionally, this versatile plant thrives indoors in pots, bringing its sophisticated beauty to both outdoor gardens and indoor spaces. Suitable for cool to tropical climates, ‘Crystal Blush’ is an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant that enhances any environment.
Planting Time for Calla Lilies
In warmer climates, June onwards is the perfect time to start planting your Calla Lilies as the days begin to warm. In cooler regions, it’s best to wait until late winter or early spring (August to September) when the soil has gently warmed, ensuring your Calla Lilies have the best start for a vibrant growing season.
What to Do When Your Calla Lily Arrives
When your Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ bulbs arrive, inspect them for any signs of damage or rot; they should feel firm and dry to the touch. If immediate planting isn’t possible due to weather or timing, store the bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, such as a garage, shed, or a cool pantry. Ensure the location is protected from extreme heat, cold, and freezing temperatures to prevent moisture build-up and keep the bulbs in good condition until planting time.
Place the bulbs in breathable containers like paper or mesh bags to allow for air circulation; these bags typically do not require peat moss and can be hung or stored in well-ventilated areas. If using cardboard boxes, first line the bottom with a thin layer of dry peat moss, then place the bulbs on top, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cover the bulbs with another layer of peat moss to absorb any excess moisture and protect them during storage. Maintaining a consistent temperature between 10-15°C (50-59°F) is essential to keep the bulbs dormant and healthy. This approach helps prevent rot and ensures your bulbs remain in good condition until planting time. Be sure to occasionally check the bulbs for any signs of mould or rot, and immediately discard any that are affected.
Climates and Growing Guide
In warmer climates, Zantedeschia hybrids, such as Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush,’ should be planted in a location that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day, but with some protection from the hottest midday sun to prevent scorching. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. Additionally, ensure the soil is well-drained, as these hybrids do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. In particularly hot regions, planting them in a slightly shaded area with filtered sunlight or light-dappled shade can help protect the plants from excessive heat stress.
Cool and Temperate Climates (e.g., Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, South Australia)
Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ thrives in cool and temperate climates, flourishing in full sun—especially morning sun—or in partial shade during extremely hot conditions. In cooler climates, where sunlight may be less intense and shorter in duration, it’s essential to plant them in a location that receives as much full sun as possible throughout the day to maximise flower production. Avoid planting in heavily sheltered areas, as this can inhibit blooming. Plant them in garden beds or pots from late winter to early spring, ideally when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 10°C, as this ensures the soil is warm enough to encourage strong root development and healthy growth. With proper care, these plants can reach a height of 30-75 cm, rewarding you with vibrant blooms throughout the season.
Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep to safeguard them from extreme temperature changes and ensure they are securely anchored in the soil. Position the bulbs with the rough side and eyes facing upwards.
Soil: Use well-draining, organic-rich soil. If your soil is poor, enhance it with organic matter to encourage healthy growth and prevent waterlogging. To improve soil structure, mix in well-rotted manure, and for added nutrients, incorporate blood and bone or a complete fertiliser before planting.
Watering: Water the plant after planting, just enough to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering while they are establishing. Once growth appears, water regularly, particularly during the growing season, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Zantedeschia hybrids do not thrive in wet areas.
Fertiliser: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once you see adequate growth to promote vigorous development and abundant blooms. Reapply every two weeks or according to the package instructions. Stop fertilising in late summer to early autumn as the plants start to enter dormancy. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers and fresh manure, as these can reduce blooms, burn roots, and introduce diseases.
Mulching: Apply a moderate layer of mulch in early spring to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Pruning: Remove spent flowers throughout the blooming season (spring to summer) to encourage further blooming and maintain plant health.
Winter Care: From late autumn to early winter, in frost-prone areas, you can either dig and lift the bulbs or use frost cloths, row covers, or a heavy layer of mulch for protection. In regions with severe frost, it’s best to dig and lift the bulbs, but you can also use frost cloths, row covers, and mulch for added protection. In frost-free areas, a light layer of mulch can help insulate the soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds, though it’s not necessary. For potted Calla Lilies, bring them indoors before the first frost and place them in a cool, dark spot to rest through winter. For more details on growing in pots, refer to the Growing in Pots section.
Mediterranean Climates (e.g., Western Australia, and parts of South Australia)
Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ performs well in Mediterranean climates, enjoying full sun to partial shade. They are best planted in garden beds or pots in late winter to early spring, growing 30-75 cm tall and producing beautiful blooms. These lilies are well-suited to this climate with their tolerance for dry summers.
Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep to safeguard them from extreme temperature changes and ensure they are securely anchored in the soil. Position the bulbs with the rough side and eyes facing upwards.
Soil: Use well-draining, organic-rich soil. If your soil is poor, enhance it with organic matter to encourage healthy growth and prevent waterlogging. To improve soil structure, mix in well-rotted manure, and for added nutrients, incorporate blood and bone or a complete fertiliser before planting.
Watering: After planting, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid overwatering during establishment; once growth appears, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between sessions, especially from spring to autumn, to help the plants adapt to dry summer conditions and ensure healthy blooms. Zantedeschia hybrids do not thrive in wet areas.
Fertiliser: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once you see sufficient growth to promote vigorous development and abundant blooms. Reapply every two weeks or as directed on the packaging. Stop fertilising in late summer to early autumn as the growing season ends and the plants prepare for dormancy. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers and fresh manure, as they can reduce blooms, burn roots, and introduce diseases.
Mulching: Apply a moderate layer of mulch in early spring to conserve moisture, protect roots from summer heat, and reduce weed competition.
Pruning: Deadhead regularly throughout the blooming season (spring to summer) to extend the blooming period and keep the plant looking tidy.
Winter Care: Minimal winter care is required, but it’s important to protect Calla Lilies from unexpected frosts in late autumn to winter to prevent frost damage. For those planted in the ground, use frost cloths or row covers, which can be left in place without daily removal, or apply a thicker layer of mulch to provide frost protection while regulating soil temperature. In regions where frost is not a concern, mulching can still be beneficial for retaining soil moisture and regulating temperature, but it’s not always necessary. For potted Calla Lilies, move them indoors or to a sheltered spot in the garden. For more details, refer to the ‘Growing in Pots’ section.
Subtropical and Tropical Climates (e.g., Queensland)
Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ can be grown in subtropical and tropical climates, though they may require extra care in tropical regions due to high humidity. Plant them in containers or raised beds with filtered sun or light shade from late winter to early spring, and choose their location carefully as they must establish in the right conditions from the start. These lilies will grow to 30-75 cm in height and bloom beautifully, though attention to watering and drainage is crucial in these climates.
Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep to safeguard them from extreme temperature changes and ensure they are securely anchored in the soil. Position the bulbs with the rough side and eyes facing upwards.
Soil: Use well-drained, organically rich soil to prevent waterlogging and provide nutrients. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand and organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage. Loamy soil is also ideal as it balances moisture retention and drainage, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates.
Watering: During the growing season, water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, as insufficient moisture can trigger dormancy. In well-drained, organically rich soil, adjust watering during heavy rainfall to prevent waterlogging and reduce the risk of fungal issues. For loamy soil, maintain moisture without allowing it to become waterlogged, particularly during hot or dry periods.
Fertiliser: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser when you see adequate growth to encourage robust blooms and boost the plant’s resistance to humidity stress. Reapply every two weeks or as directed on the packaging. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers and fresh manure, as they can reduce blooms, burn roots, and introduce diseases.
Mulching: Apply a thin to moderate layer of mulch in early spring to keep the roots cool, retain moisture, and minimise weed growth. Use a light layer in tropical climates to avoid trapping excess moisture.
Pruning: Regularly remove dead or yellowing leaves throughout the blooming season (spring to summer) to maintain plant health. In tropical areas, immediately remove any foliage showing signs of fungal infection to prevent the spread.
Winter Care: Minimal care is needed in these climates. Reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings while keeping enough moisture to prevent the bulbs from drying out. Although Calla Lilies may not enter true dormancy, their growth slows during cooler, drier months. Stop fertilising in late autumn as they transition into slower growth. Mulching for dormancy is generally not necessary, but if used, apply a light layer to retain moisture and keep roots cool, avoiding heavy mulching to prevent excess moisture.
Arid and Semi-Arid Climates (e.g., Central Australia, parts of Western Australia)
In arid and semi-arid climates, Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ can thrive with proper care. Plant them in garden beds or containers in late winter to early spring, ensuring they receive full sun or light shade. These lilies can reach a height of 40-60 cm and will produce stunning blooms, but careful attention to watering and mulching is essential to prevent stress in these harsh conditions.
Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep to protect them from extreme temperature fluctuations and anchor them securely in the soil, with the rough side and eyes facing upward.
Soil: Use well-drained, organically rich soil to provide nutrients and retain moisture. Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance water retention.
Watering: Water deeply but infrequently from spring to autumn to mimic the plant’s natural habitat and prevent root rot.
Fertiliser: Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early spring to sustain growth and promote flowering in nutrient-poor soils. Fertilisation should cease in late summer to early autumn, as the plants will naturally slow down their growth and enter dormancy due to cooler temperatures and reduced water availability. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilisers and fresh manure, as they can reduce blooms, burn roots, and introduce diseases.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch in early spring to retain moisture, protect the roots from extreme temperatures, and reduce evaporation in these dry climates.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed; simply remove any dead or damaged foliage throughout the blooming season (spring to summer) to maintain plant health.
Winter Care: Where overnight temperatures can drop significantly, protect your Calla Lilies by applying a layer of mulch to insulate the soil and retain moisture. You don’t need to lift and store the bulbs, but if frost is a concern, lifting and storing them offers extra protection. Simply reduce watering and allow the foliage to die back naturally. This approach helps your Calla Lilies stay healthy through the winter months, even though they may not enter true dormancy.
Growing Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ in Pots
Calla Lilies, including the ‘Crystal Blush’ variety, thrive in pots due to their compact growth habit, making them ideal for container gardening. Pots offer better control over soil quality, watering, and light exposure, ensuring optimal growth and blooming. Additionally, pots allow for easy mobility, letting you adjust their placement for the best seasonal conditions. While they can also be grown in garden beds with well-draining soil and favourable climate conditions, planting Calla Lilies in clusters provides the most dramatic effect. In pots, these lilies typically reach heights of 30-75 cm, making them a striking addition to any setting.
Container Size & Planting: Choose a pot that is at least 30 cm deep and wide to allow ample room for root growth. Plant the bulbs 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep with the growing tips facing upwards for optimal development. Space the bulbs adequately to ensure good air circulation and prevent disease, ideally placing no more than three bulbs per pot.
Soil & Placement: Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter to support healthy growth and prevent waterlogging. Position the pot in full sun, especially morning sun, or partial shade depending on your climate. For indoor plants, choose a bright spot with indirect light.
Watering & Fertilising: After planting, lightly moisten the soil. Avoid overwatering during establishment. Once growth appears, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser once sufficient growth appears to support vigorous growth and encourage blooming throughout the growing season.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch to the soil surface to retain moisture, keep roots cool, and reduce weed growth. A light layer helps prevent potential problems.
Winter Care for potted plants
Cooler Climates: As winter approaches, move the pots to a sheltered location, such as a shed or greenhouse, to shield them from frost. If severe frost is expected, bring the pots indoors before the first frost and place them in a cool, dark area away from heat sources. During this time, reduce watering significantly—only enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out—and ensure the pot is insulated to protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures. The aim is to allow the plant to enter dormancy.
Warmer Climates: The bulbs can remain in the pot. Reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy and move the pot to a cool, shaded area to protect the bulb from excessive heat. Allow the plant to rest during this period, and resume regular care in early spring as new growth begins to emerge.
Life Cycle
Calla Lilies are not evergreen and will enter dormancy at the end of the growing season, typically from late autumn. The first sign of dormancy is the yellowing of leaves—this is a natural part of their life cycle, with the bulb remaining healthy. With proper care, Calla Lilies can live for several years, producing beautiful blooms annually.
Cut flowers for vases
For cut flowers, harvest from the base of the plant just as they begin to bloom, before pollen shedding, to extend their vase life in bouquets.
Division
Calla Lily ‘Crystal Blush’ can become crowded over time, which may reduce flowering. To keep your Calla Lilies healthy and blooming, divide the clumps every 3 to 4 years.
Cool and Temperate Climates: In areas like Tasmania, southern Victoria, southern New South Wales, and the ACT, divide Calla Lilies from late winter to early spring, around August to October. This timing allows the plants to recover and grow well before the main growing season begins.
Warmer Climates: For subtropical, tropical, Mediterranean, arid, and semi-arid regions, such as Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, and Alice Springs, divide Calla Lilies from late winter to early spring, between June and September. In Mediterranean climates, you can also divide them in late summer to early autumn, from February to March. This schedule helps the plants adjust and thrive before the hotter months start.
After the foliage has turned yellow and died back, carefully lift the bulbs from the soil using a garden fork or trowel. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bulbs. Gently brush off any excess soil from the bulbs. Avoid washing them with water, as moisture can encourage rot during storage. Allow the bulbs to air dry for a few days in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area. This process helps them to firm up and reduces the risk of mould and rot.
Before storing, inspect each bulb for any signs of damage, rot, or disease. Discard any bulbs that are soft, mouldy, or have visible damage.
- Store the bulbs in a breathable material, such as a paper bag, mesh bag, or a cardboard box lined with newspaper. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to rot.
- If using a cardboard box, you can place multiple bulbs in the same box as long as there is enough space for air circulation between them. It’s advisable to add a layer of dry peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite between the bulbs to absorb excess moisture and prevent them from touching each other.
- Place the bags or boxes in a cool, dark, and dry location. The ideal storage temperature is between 10-15°C (50-59°F). A garage or shed can be suitable, as long as it doesn’t get too cold or humid.
- Periodically check the stored bulbs throughout the winter to ensure they remain dry and firm. If you notice any signs of rot or mould, remove the affected bulbs immediately to prevent them from spreading to others.
Gently lift the clump from the ground, separate the bulbs, and replant them in well-prepared soil to ensure continued healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Calla Lilies Companions
Calla Lilies can be successfully planted with other flowers, but are happiest on their own. These can often enhance mixed garden beds or container arrangements. Good companions include hostas, ferns, astilbes, and other moisture-loving, shade-tolerant plants. Ensure adequate spacing between calla lilies and other plants to promote proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease.
Pests and Diseases
While Calla Lilies are relatively resilient, they can be susceptible to pests like slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage. To manage these pests, consider using organic slug pellets or barriers. Additionally, keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap to prevent them from spreading diseases or damaging the plants.
Caution: Harmful if eaten; may cause skin and eye irritation.