Information on the Black-Eyed Beauty Calla Lily

Description

• The dense, lush foliage of Black-Eyed Beauty calla lilies is dark green speckled with white and lighter green. In warm climates, the plant stays green all year long and produces flowers continuously from late spring to early fall. The upright foliage forms a thick base for the flowers rising above on compact stems. The flowers are less trumpet-shaped than many callas, with one side more open than the other, like a pitcher. In the center of the pastel yellow flowers is the large, intensely black "eye." Black-Eyed Beauty has a clumping habit and grows to about 18 inches tall with a spread of up to 15 inches.

Cultivation

• Outdoors, Black-Eyed Beauty requires moist, rich soil with good drainage and a pH level of 5.6 to 6.5. Plant either in full sun or light shade, and water thoroughly and frequently during the growing season, spring to fall. Cut back severely on watering during the winter, when the plant is resting, or dig up the rhizomes and bury them in wood shavings in a well-ventilated area indoors. In containers, plant the calla lily in a rich growing medium. Make sure the container has good drainage. In colder climates, container-grown lilies can stay outdoors during the warm months and be moved indoors for the winter. Grow Black-Eyed Beauty calla lilies outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 to 10.

Pests and Diseases

• Indoors, the lush foliage may attract spider mites and aphids, both of which feed on the plant's juices, weakening the lily. These pests can be washed off the plant with a good spray from the shower or sink. Outdoors, use the garden hose to wash the bugs away. Callas are relatively disease-free, but the rhizomes can develop Erwinia soft rot in poorly drained soils or containers. Japanese beetles may be a problem outdoors.

Uses

• Grow Black-Eyed Beauty calla lilies in containers either individually or, in larger containers, mass several plants for an impressive flower show. Grow the plant in partial shade for longer stems, which are useful if you plan to use the plant for cut flower arrangements. Give cut flowers plenty of water and they will last for about two weeks. Black-Eyed Beauty callas grow well indoors full time and lend a soft, tropical dimension to the room. Outdoors, try planting callas as part of a mixed border.