Calla lily care guide
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Quick answer
Water your calla lily when the surface of the soil has dried slightly. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
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- Light
- Bright / direct light
- 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
When and how to water
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
That drainage rule is for a calla lily in ordinary potting mix. Grown as a marginal water plant in aquatic compost, this species can also stand in water up to 30 cm (12 in) deep.
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
Bright / direct light
Calla lily needs several hours of direct sun. Turn the pot every week so it grows evenly. Place it directly in front of a south- or southwest-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
Climate18–24 °C (64–75 °F)
Humidity40–60%
Calla lily is comfortable between 18 and 24 °C (64–75 °F). It handles a cool room well, even in winter, as long as it stays above 0 °C (32 °F).
It does best at 40–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
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 surface of the soil has dried slightly. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
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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