Calla lily care guide
How to keep calla lily healthy at home: how much to water it, the light it needs, and how to catch common problems early.
At a glance
- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Zantedeschia aethiopica
When and how much water
Water your calla lily when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Calla lily needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your calla lily every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Calla lily is comfortable between 18 and 24 °C (64–75 °F). Below 10 °C (50 °F) the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 40–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full calla lily toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a calla lily?
Water your calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) when the top 2 cm (0.8 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a calla lily need?
Calla lily needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Is calla lily safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep calla lily out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like pink jasmine, Camellia, indoor banana, or Venus fly trap.
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · habitat · rhizome · poisonous parts
- Royal Horticultural SocietyOutdoor light · moisture-retentive soil · container compost · pests · diseases · hardiness · Species/tender-group distinction · compost · dormancy · watering · drainage · indoor pests · rot
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxicity · insoluble calcium oxalates · clinical signs · dogs and cats
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