Description
Calla Lily ‘Nightclub’ (Zantedeschia hybrids, family Araceae)
Calla Lily ‘Nightclub’ is a tuberous perennial prized for its deep burgundy blooms that bring elegance and drama to the garden. Native to South Africa, these plants are suited to cool to subtropical climates and thrive in both beds and containers.
In spring, lush green leaves, often spotted white, emerge on strong stems, followed by velvety trumpet-shaped flowers from late spring into summer. Each rhizome produces multiple blooms, increasing as plants mature. Over time, they also form pups, gradually expanding the clump.
Where to Plant
These perennials thrive in beds, borders, and mixed plantings, bringing bold contrast to both small and large spaces. Their compact habit suits smaller gardens, while grouped plantings create impact in larger areas. In pots and containers, they add colour to patios, balconies, or entryways, and their sturdy stems make them prized cut flowers with excellent vase life.
Climate Suitability
Calla lilies grow well in cool to subtropical climates and thrive in mild conditions with consistent moisture. In warmer frost-free regions, they can remain in the ground year-round. In frost-prone areas, calla lilies are sensitive to frost. Rhizomes are best lifted and stored indoors until spring, while in regions with mild winters, pots may remain outdoors in sheltered spots or against a heat-retentive wall.
When to Plant
In warmer, frost-free climates, calla lilies can be planted from June onwards, once the soil has cooled. In frost-prone climates, plant only after the last frost in spring to protect young growth.
Location
Choose a position in full sun to part shade. At least six hours of direct sunlight each day is needed for good flowering, but some afternoon shade is beneficial during periods of intense heat to prevent foliage scorch.
Soil
Plant in well-drained, organically rich soil to avoid rhizome rot and support strong growth. Before planting, improve the ground with organic matter such as well-rotted manure, blood and bone, or a complete fertiliser for flowering plants. For pots, use a high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter to provide the best conditions for healthy development and abundant blooms.
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during summer, as drying can trigger dormancy. A balance of good drainage and regular watering will ensure vigorous plants and reliable flowering.
How to Plant in the Ground
Plant rhizomes with the rough side facing up, 20 cm apart and 10 cm deep, then cover with soil. This spacing and depth allow each plant to establish well and grow strongly.
How to Plant in Pots
Use the same method as for the ground, planting rhizomes rough side up at a depth of 10 cm before covering with soil. For the best display, place three rhizomes in a large pot, leaving enough space between them to develop fully and to reduce the risk of disease. In smaller containers, plant a single rhizome per pot to ensure it has adequate room to grow.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, as drying can trigger dormancy. Avoid waterlogging, as this can cause rhizome rot. In pots, check moisture levels more frequently, as containers dry out faster than garden beds. Regular watering, combined with good drainage, will ensure vigorous plants and reliable flowering.
Fertilising
Work a complete fertiliser into the soil before planting or apply it in early spring as new growth begins. Spread evenly around the base without touching shoots or rhizomes and water well.
During the growing season, feed every 4–6 weeks until late summer or early autumn to support flowering. Stop feeding as the plant enters dormancy, then resume in spring. In pots, a slow-release fertiliser is ideal to maintain nutrients despite regular watering.
Mulching
Mulching helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a light layer of organic mulch such as straw, sugarcane, or bark chips around the base, keeping it away from the shoots and rhizomes to prevent rot. It is valuable in hot, dry, and cool climates alike, and benefits pots by reducing evaporation.
Maintenance
Calla lilies are easy to care for once established. Water, fertilise, and mulch during the growing season to support growth and blooms. Remove spent flowers to maintain vigour. At the end of the season, when the foliage begins to turn yellow, reduce watering and allow the leaves to die back naturally so the rhizomes can store energy. Monitor for slugs and snails in damp conditions and protect as needed.
Division and Storage
Divide calla lilies every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain flowering. Large rhizomes can be cut into sections with a bud or eye, while smaller bulblets can be separated. Division is best done once the plant is dormant, either in late autumn to early winter after the foliage has died back, or in early spring before new growth begins. After lifting, cure rhizomes in a warm, shaded spot for a few days to a week, then store in a cool, dark, dry, well-ventilated place until replanting in spring.
In regions with frosts, lift and store rhizomes indoors until spring. Potted callas can be moved into a frost-free shed or garage, placed in a sheltered spot with frost cloths, or dug up and stored if no protection is available. In mild winters, pots may remain outdoors in sheltered positions or against a heat-retentive wall.
Companions
Calla lilies can be planted in garden beds with other flowers or grown on their own. They pair well with hostas, ferns, and astilbes, along with other moisture-loving plants. Adequate spacing ensures airflow, reduces disease risk, and allows the bulbs to develop properly.
Pests and Diseases
• Slugs and snails – Feed on young shoots and leaves, especially in damp conditions. Control with barriers, traps, or organic baits.
• Fungal issues –Leaf spots and mould can occur in warm, humid climates; improve airflow and remove affected foliage.
• Rhizome rot – More likely in cooler climates with prolonged wet conditions. Prevent by planting in well-drained soil or containers.
Safety
Calla lilies are toxic if eaten and may irritate skin or eyes. Keep out of reach of children and pets, and wear gloves when handling.
Caution: Harmful if eaten; skin & eye irritant
Supplied as a dormant bulb.
Important Reminder: While we aim for realistic representations of our products, factors like climatic conditions, natural variations, or manufacturing changes may affect their exact appearance. Typically, the images show mature specimens, whereas the supplied stock is dormant or juvenile and will develop over time. These images are intended as a guide only.