Cultivating the Best Calla Lilies for Stunning Summer Displays

When it comes to garden elegance, few plants can rival the grace and beauty of calla lilies. These tall-stemmed wonders are adored for their chic trumpet-shaped blooms and dashing, upright foliage. Whether mass planted in cutting gardens or used as accents in mixed beds and containers, Zantedeschia plants are sure to make a statement.

Hailing from southern Africa, these classic beauties are not only simple to grow but also offer a generous flowering time of three to eight weeks. Beyond their garden charm, calla lilies have also become favorites in the florist industry, gracing flower arrangements and bridal bouquets with their timeless appeal.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 21 of the best calla lilies for your garden, covering popular garden species as well as lesser-known varieties. From vibrant apricots to deep purples and fiery reds, these sensational blooms promise to add a touch of magic to your summer landscape.

Garden Species

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Z. aethiopica

The arum lily, Z. aethiopica, is a perennial evergreen known for its creamy white to blush pink spathes that rise on tall stems above glossy foliage. Thriving in warm temperatures and moist, rich soil, this stately plant can flourish as a perennial in Zones 8 to 11. Varieties like ‘Crowborough,’ ‘Green Goddess,’ and ‘Sunshine’ are popular choices that bring a touch of elegance to any garden setting.

Z. albomaculata

The spotted calla lily, Z. albomaculata, offers distinctive ivory white spathes with variations ranging from pale yellow to coral pink. Ideal for cut flower arrangements, this species requires winter dormancy and is hardy in Zones 10 and 11. The ‘Helen O’Connor’ cultivar is a beloved pink-toned variety that adds a delicate touch to garden displays.

Z. elliottiana

Known as the golden arum, Z. elliottiana boasts striking golden yellow spathes and freckled foliage. Ideal for cut flowers, this species thrives in Zones 8 to 10 and offers vibrant cultivars like ‘Black Magic’ and ‘Flame’ for a pop of color in your garden.

Z. pentlandii

Originating from South Africa, the Mapoch lily, Z. pentlandii, dazzles with sunshine yellow spathes and purple accents. Perfect for late summer displays, this species is hardy in Zones 8 to 10 and offers colorful cultivars like ‘Black Star’ and ‘Picasso.’

Z. rehmannii

Also known as the pink or red calla, Z. rehmannii features intense shades of mauve, maroon, pink, and purple. With a compact stature perfect for borders and containers, this species thrives in Zones 8 to 10 and offers notable cultivars like ‘Indian Summer’ and ‘Odessa’ for vibrant garden displays.

Less Common Species

In addition to these garden favorites, there are three lesser-known species that add a touch of uniqueness to any landscape:

Z. jucunda: Trumpet-shaped flowers in various shades of yellow.
Z. odorata: Creamy white spathe with a floral fragrance.
Z. valida: Bicolor blooms with a creamy mottled green spathe and deep purple throat.

21 of the Best Calla Lily Varieties

Allure: Glossy wine red flowers for cutting gardens and warm-toned displays.
Apricot Lady: Apricot tones with raspberry edges for a charming garden display.
Black Magic: Bright yellow flowers with a distinctive black throat for striking contrast.
Black Star: Dark maroon-to-black spathes for a dramatic garden centerpiece.
Crowborough: Pure white cup-like flowers for an elegant garden display.
Flame: Golden yellow flowers with fiery orange and red hues for vibrant borders.
Garnet Glow: Tall pink spathes for colorful garden displays.
Green Goddess: Bi-tonal spathes of creamy white and green for a striking garden display.
Helen O’Connor: Pale yellow spathes with apricot or pink shades for a unique garden display.
Indian Summer: Beige-ecru spathes opening to a rich wine red for a late summer bloom.
Intimate Ivory: Tall chalice-like spathes in ivory white for a nonstop floral display.
Lavender Sensation: Pinkish lavender spathes for dreamy garden displays.
Majestic Red: Deep burgundy spathes for a velvety soft garden centerpiece.
Millennium Gold: Buttercup yellow spathes for brightening up garden displays.
Morning Sun: Fluted yellow-to-peach spathes for vibrant garden displays.
Odessa: Deep purply black spathes for a striking garden centerpiece.
Picasso: Creamy white spathes with deep purple throats for a unique garden display.
Purple Sensation: Deep royal purple spathes for adding a touch of royalty to garden displays.
Red Alert: Fire-engine red spathes with flame orange mottling for a blaze of color.
Siberia: Icy white spathes for cooling down garden displays.
Sunshine: Warm yellow spathes for sunny garden displays.

Sensational Summer Blooms

From their sensational blooms to their vibrant colors, calla lilies are the perfect addition to any summer garden. These versatile plants offer endless possibilities for creating stunning displays in your landscape. Whether you prefer classic whites or bold purples and reds, there’s a calla lily variety to suit every taste.

To ensure your calla lilies thrive, keep the soil moist and provide afternoon shade in hot areas. Don’t forget to dig up the rhizomes and store them for winter in cooler regions. With a little care and attention, these graceful flowers will reward you with a summer garden that’s both chic and colorful.

How do you use calla lilies in your garden? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below. And for more information on growing calla lilies, check out our informative guides.