Calla lilies are elegant, distinctive houseplants — and surprisingly approachable once you understand their needs. Here's how to care for a calla lily indoors.
Calla Lily Characteristics
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia) aren't true lilies, but they carry a similar air of refinement. Their sculptural, trumpet-shaped flowers appear in white, yellow, pink, red, and deep purple. Indoor calla lilies typically flower for several weeks, then rest before blooming again.
Basic Indoor Care
Temperature
Calla lilies prefer 15–22 °C. Avoid placing them near cold drafts or heating vents.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, but not waterlogged. Let the top centimetre dry between waterings. During the dormant period, reduce watering significantly.
Humidity
Moderate humidity works best. Misting the leaves occasionally helps, especially in dry winter homes.
Substrate and Fertiliser
Use a well-draining potting mix. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during the growing season; stop during dormancy.
Propagation
Calla lilies propagate best via division of their rhizomes during the dormant period. Lift the rhizomes, divide gently into sections with healthy buds, and replant.
Benefits of Keeping a Calla Lily at Home
- A sculptural, low-fuss houseplant.
- Blooms that last weeks, not days.
- Elegant in both modern and traditional interiors.
- Air-purifying (mildly — on par with other common houseplants).
- Adaptable to different room conditions once established.
Related Bouquets
If you'd rather have calla lilies as a cut-flower arrangement, browse our flower bouquet collection — and see our white calla lily and white rose bouquet for a classic combination.
A calla lily at home is a small, elegant plant commitment. Follow the basics above and it rewards you with sculptural flowers several times a year.
