Purple Calla Lily: Overview

The Purple Calla Lily (Zantedeschia spp.) is an elegant trumpet-shaped flower admired for its deep purple hues, symbolizing admiration and charm. This perennial flowering plant belongs to the Araceae family and originates from South Africa. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. Hence, this tropical plant is often overwintered indoors in colder climates. 

Blooming from late spring to early summer, the Calla Lily Purple produces long-lasting flowers that remain vibrant for up to two weeks. The plant typically grows between 12 to 36 inches tall, depending on the variety and growing conditions. It prefers sun to partial shade, requiring well-draining soil and consistent moisture to thrive. While not overly demanding, it does need moderate care, making it suitable for gardeners who can maintain a regular watering schedule.

Despite its beauty, the Purple Calla Lily is toxic to pets if ingested, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation and swelling. Pet owners should take precautions when planting or displaying it indoors. 

Calla lilies come in various colors, each with its own unique symbolism. In addition to purple calla lilies, they are available in shades of pink, yellow, white, orange, and red. The Pink Calla Lily, for instance, is often associated with admiration and appreciation, making it a popular choice for a gift on Valentine’s Day and other special occasions.

Purple Calla  Lily: Meaning

The Purple Calla Lily plant symbolizes admiration, charm, and elegance, often representing deep passion and mystery. Its rich, velvety hue is associated with royalty, sophistication, and transformations, making it a meaningful choice for expressing respect and appreciation. As a plant gift, the Dark Purple Calla Lily conveys a sense of reverence, making it ideal for milestones, celebrations, or to honor someone special. Whether given in bouquets or as a potted indoor plant, it adds a touch of refinement and heartfelt sentiment to any occasion. 

Purple Calla Lily: Care Guide

The Purple Calla Lily is a moderately easy plant to care for. It requires the right balance of light, moisture, and nutrients to thrive. With proper attention, it will reward you with stunning blooms and lush foliage year after year.

Light & Temperature

Purple Calla Lilies prefer full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of bright, indirect light daily. They thrive in temperatures between 50-75°F but should be protected from sudden temperature drops and frost. If grown indoors, keep them away from cold drafts and heating vents.

Watering & Humidity

These plants enjoy consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing watering slightly once the blooming period ends. Calla Lilies appreciate moderate humidity but can adapt to normal indoor conditions if not placed in overly dry environments.

Soil & Repotting

A well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix is essential for healthy growth. A blend of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well. If grown in a container, repot the plant every one to two years or when it outgrows its pot, ensuring fresh soil and improved drainage.

Feeding & Propagation

Feed your Calla Lily every two to four weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers. Propagation is done through rhizome division in early spring or after the plant has gone dormant in the fall.

Pruning, Cleaning & Common Issues

Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to encourage continuous blooming and healthy growth. Wipe the leaves occasionally to remove dust and prevent pests like spider mites or aphids. Common issues include root rot from overwatering, fungal diseases, and leaf yellowing due to improper lighting or nutrient imbalances. Ensuring good air circulation and proper watering practices can help prevent most problems.

Purple Calla Lily Plant: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The Purple Calla Lily is a moderately easy plant to care for, requiring the right balance of light, moisture, and nutrients to thrive. With proper attention, it will reward you with its stunning blooms and lush foliage year after year. 

Best Locations & Uses

• Ideal for plant lovers without pets, as it is toxic if ingested.
• Perfect for beginner indoor gardeners, as it requires moderate care but rewards with stunning blooms.
• Great for bathrooms with windows, since it thrives in humid conditions with bright, indirect light.
• A beautiful addition to sunrooms or well-lit spaces, where it can receive ample light without direct midday exposure.
• It is suitable for porches and patios in warm climates, as long as they are protected from harsh afternoon sun and frost. 

Companion Plants

Pairing the Purple Calla Lily with complementary plants enhances its beauty and creates a visually appealing arrangement. 

• Peace Lily (Caladium): With its pristine white blooms and green foliage, the Peace Lily contrasts beautifully with Calla Lilies while thriving in similar light and moisture conditions.
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): The Boston Fern’s feathery fronds provide a soft, textured backdrop that complements the elegant blooms of Calla Lilies. 
• Anthurium Livium (Anthurium Livium): Known for its glossy, heart-shaped flowers, Anthurium adds an exotic touch and shares the same preference for bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.   

Alternative Plants

For pet owners who love the look of the Purple Calla Lily but need a non-toxic option, these pet-friendly alternatives provide beauty without the risk.

• Calathea Orbifolia (Calathea orbifolia): With its large striped leaves, the Calathea Orbifolia is a stunning foliage plant that adds a touch of elegance. 
• Neanthe Bella Palm (Chamaedorea elegans): The Bella Palm is a low-maintenance, air-purifying palm with soft, feathery fronds that bring a lush tropical feel to any space.  
• Pink Phalaenopsis Orchid (Phalaenopsis): Known for its delicate, long-lasting blooms, the Pink Phalaenopsis Orchid offers a refined floral touch that is both pet-friendly and stunning.  

Order the Beautiful Purple Calla Lily From Lively Root Today

Bring elegance and charm into your home or garden with the Purple Calla Lily! Order yours from Lively Root today and enjoy its stunning blooms all season!