Starting how to grow calla lily from a bulb often feels like a test of patience. The bulb sits quiet, soil stays still, and you wonder if anything is happening underground. But when the first green spear finally breaks through, the wait becomes worth it. Success depends on a few key factors: bulb quality, soil condition, light, and moisture. And while the plant itself does most of the work, choosing the right bulb or seed gives you a head start.
Whether you prefer planting bulbs for faster blooms or seeds for a wider color variety, the options from EasytoGrow and seedsofstrength cover a range of budgets and growing styles. Prices range from $5.90 to $26.95, so there’s something for every gardener. This guide breaks down 4 products that can help you succeed with how to grow calla lily from a bulb or seed, indoors or outdoors. For more on lighting setups, check out our best grow light for indoor plants picks to keep your calla lilies thriving year-round.
Pros
- Striking, almost black flower color that stands out
- Good value for a 3-bulb pack of a sought-after variety
- Some bulbs produce multiple offsets, increasing your stock
- Attractive glossy green foliage even before blooms
- Versatile for hanging baskets, borders, or patio pots
Cons
- Color may appear deep purple rather than true black for some
- Bulbs may stay small (5-6 inches) instead of reaching full height
- Some bulbs may not bloom in the first growing season
The Easy to Grow Calla Lily Odessa is a pack of three bulbs that promises dark purple to black blooms, a color that's highly sought after by gardeners looking for something unique. This variety, Zantedeschia 'Odessa', is marketed as a premium black calla lily, and it's intended for outdoor planting in spring for summer flowers. It's a good choice for gardeners in USDA zones 8 through 11, or for those in colder regions who are willing to overwinter the bulbs indoors.
In terms of standout features, the color is the main draw. When they bloom, the flowers are indeed a deep, dark purple that can appear almost black, especially in certain lighting. The glossy emerald green foliage adds a nice contrast. The bulbs are easy to plant and care for, requiring partial sun and regular watering. Some reviewers have successfully used them in hanging baskets and container gardens, pairing them with trailing plants like creeping jenny for a lush look.
Real-world performance is mixed based on customer feedback. Many gardeners were thrilled with the blooms, noting the unique color and the fact that some bulbs produced plenty of offsets. However, a few reviewers mentioned that the plants stayed relatively small, around 5 to 6 inches tall, rather than the taller stems typical of calla lilies. There were also complaints that the color wasn't as dark as expected, leaning more toward purple than black. A small number of bulbs failed to grow or bloom at all, which can happen with any bulb product.
The build quality of the bulbs themselves seems decent. Most arrived firm and dry, ready for planting. The packaging is straightforward, with no frills. One reviewer even received a couple of extra small bulbs. The brand Easy to Grow is an American company that sources from farmers, which adds a layer of trust. That said, the mixed reviews on color accuracy and size suggest that results can vary.
Overall, the Easy to Grow Calla Lily Odessa bulbs are a solid choice if you're after an unusual flower color and are willing to accept some variability. They're not a guaranteed showstopper, but when they perform well, they're stunning. For the price, you get three bulbs of a variety that's not always easy to find. If you have the right conditions and a bit of patience, these can be a rewarding addition to your garden.
Pros
- Large quantity ensures plenty of plants for a low price.
- Mixed colors create a cheerful, varied display.
- Heirloom seeds are non-GMO and open-pollinated.
- Good germination reported by many users when proper soaking and warm conditions are provided.
- Perennial nature means flowers return each year.
Cons
- Hardiness zone not clearly stated; seeds may only thrive in zones 7-10 without extra care.
- Seeds can be slow and erratic to germinate, taking weeks to months.
- Instructions do not mention cold stratification, which some seeds may require for best results.
SeedsOfStrength 100Pcs Calla Lily Seeds offer an affordable way to grow a stunning mix of calla lilies from seed. This pack targets gardeners who enjoy the challenge of starting plants from scratch and want a large quantity of blooms in varied colors. With 100 heirloom seeds, you get plenty of material for a cheerful garden display from spring to fall.
The main appeal is the blend of vibrant flower colors and the generous seed count. Calla lilies are known for their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and this mix promises a range of hues. The seeds are heirloom, meaning you can save seeds for future plantings. Customer experiences are mixed but generally positive: many report successful germination when following the pre-soak and warm soil instructions. One reviewer noted all test seeds sprouted. However, others mention that the seeds may need cold stratification not mentioned in the enclosed directions, and germination can be slow.
As a seed product, there is no physical product to examine. The seeds come in a standard resealable bag. The instructions provided cover basic steps: soak seeds, sow shallow in seed starting mix, keep warm and moist. Some customers noted the lack of hardiness zone information and the need for stratification, which could be improved.
The biggest drawbacks are the lack of clear zone information and the extended germination time. One customer in zone 3 found the seeds unsuitable for outdoor planting, as the ideal zones are 7-10. Another reviewer pointed out that without cold stratification, planting in summer might be unsuccessful. Patience is essential.
For gardeners with the right climate or willingness to start seeds indoors, these calla lily seeds are a great value. The potential for a diverse, beautiful flower bed is high. Just be prepared for a slow start and check your hardiness zone. If you enjoy the journey of growing from seed, this pack is worth trying.
- Brand: SeedsOfStrength
- Quantity: 100 Seeds
- Color: Mix
- Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun
- Bloom Period: Spring to Fall
- Plant Height: Up to 2 Feet
- Soil Type: Sandy, Well-draining
- Moisture Needs: Regular Watering
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
- Material Feature: Heirloom
- Special Feature: Air Purification
- Expected Planting Period: Spring
Pros
- Large quantity of 100 seeds for a low price.
- Heirloom seeds allow for seed saving and sustainability.
- Wide color range adds vibrant variety to any garden.
- Grows well in both sun and partial shade.
- Air-purifying benefit is a nice bonus.
Cons
- Seeds can take up to three years to bloom, requiring patience.
- Seeds need pre-germination on a damp paper towel before planting.
- Not suited for cold climates unless treated as annuals.
If you are looking to add a touch of elegance to your garden without breaking the bank, the Seedsofstrength Calla Lily Seeds pack is a solid starting point. With 100 seeds in the bag, you get plenty of chances to grow these classic, tubular flowers in shades from white and pink to coral, maroon, orange, and yellow. The heirloom nature of these seeds means you can save them for future seasons, which is a nice perk for sustainable gardeners.
These calla lilies grow best in USDA zones 8 through 10, though you can treat them as annuals in colder areas. They prefer full sun to partial shade, with bright indirect light being ideal. Too much dense shade can lower the number of buds, while scorching midday sun may stress the plants. The upright habit reaches 12 to 36 inches tall and 9 to 24 inches wide, making them suitable for borders, containers, or cut flower arrangements. Bloom stalks start to shoot up about eight weeks after planting, and you can enjoy the flowers for a couple of months.
One thing to keep in mind is that growing calla lilies from seed takes patience. It can take up to three years for a plant to bloom. The seeds also need pre-germination on a damp paper towel in a cool place before you plant them in a soilless medium. This extra step might feel like a hassle, but it is necessary for success. Once the seedlings sprout, you will need to thin them to one per pot for the best results.
On the plus side, these seeds are heirloom and come from a brand called Seedsofstrength, which focuses on quality. The seeds are lightweight and easy to store. The only real drawback is the wait time, but if you are not in a rush, the payoff can be a beautiful display of colorful calla lilies. The air-purifying feature is a nice extra, though its effect is modest in an outdoor setting.
Overall, this seed pack is a good value for gardeners who enjoy a long-term project and want a wide variety of colors. It is not for someone looking for instant blooms, but for those willing to wait, it can be a rewarding addition to the garden. Just be prepared to follow the germination instructions carefully and be patient.
Pros
- Heirloom seeds for sustainable gardening and seed saving.
- Wide variety of flower colors to brighten any garden.
- Adaptable to full sun or partial shade.
- Can be grown as annuals in colder zones for seasonal enjoyment.
- Stems are tall and ideal for elegant bouquets.
Cons
- Flowers take up to three years to appear from seed, requiring patience.
- Requires specific germination steps including pre-soaking on a damp paper towel.
- Moderate customer rating due to the long wait and specialized care needed.
If you're a gardener who enjoys the process of nurturing plants from seed, the Calla Lily Seeds from Seeds Of Strength offer a rewarding project. This 100-seed pack is heirloom, meaning you can save seeds for future seasons. The calla lilies you can grow come in a beautiful range of colors including white, pink, coral, maroon, orange, and yellow. They're perfect for adding elegance to garden beds or as cut flowers in bouquets.
These seeds require patience. It can take up to three years for your calla lilies to bloom. The germination process involves spreading seeds on a damp paper towel in a cool location, then planting them in a soilless medium. Once established, the plants grow 12 to 36 inches tall and begin flowering about eight weeks after planting, with blooms lasting a couple of months. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and are best suited for USDA zones 8-10, but can be grown as annuals in colder climates.
The quality of the seeds is heirloom, ensuring genetic diversity and the ability to collect seeds. However, the customer rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars suggests some may find the long wait or specific growing requirements challenging. For those committed to the journey, the eventual payoff is a stunning display of elegant flowers on tall stems.
Overall, these seeds are a solid choice for patient gardeners who value heirloom varieties and want to add a touch of sophistication to their garden. Just be prepared for the time investment and follow the germination instructions carefully for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Calla Lilies
Here are answers to common questions gardeners have when learning how to grow calla lily from a bulb or seed. These tips help you avoid beginner mistakes and get the best results.
How long does it take to grow calla lily from a bulb?
Bulbs usually send up their first shoots within 2 to 4 weeks after planting, depending on soil temperature and moisture. Warm soil around 70°F speeds up growth. If you start with seeds, germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so bulbs are the faster choice for impatient gardeners.
Can I grow calla lilies indoors under grow lights?
Yes, calla lilies grow well indoors with bright, indirect light. If your home doesn’t get enough natural sunlight, a full spectrum grow light can help. For tips on choosing the right light, see our guide on best full spectrum grow light bulbs. Consistent light for 12-14 hours a day keeps leaves compact and encourages blooms.
Should I soak calla lily seeds before planting?
Soaking seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours can improve germination rates. This softens the seed coat and helps the embryo wake up. After soaking, plant them about ¼ inch deep in seed-starting mix and keep the soil lightly moist and warm. Patience is key because germination can be slow and uneven.
How deep should I plant calla lily bulbs?
Plant bulbs about 2 to 3 inches deep with the pointed end facing up. Space them 12 to 18 inches apart for good air circulation. Proper depth prevents the bulb from drying out while still allowing shoots to emerge easily. In heavy clay soil, plant a little shallower to avoid rot.
Why are my calla lily leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves often signal overwatering or poor drainage. Calla lilies like consistent moisture but not soggy soil. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. If leaves are pale and stretched, the plant may need more light. Check our best LED grow light for indoor plants for boosting light indoors.
With the right bulb or seed choice, plus a little attention to light and watering, how to grow calla lily from a bulb becomes a straightforward and rewarding project. Whether you pick the dramatic dark blooms of Odessa or a mix of colors from seeds, these products give you a solid start for 2026 planting season.
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