Purple Calla Lily
Best dramatic accent for experienced gardeners seeking bold container displays.
Discover the striking Purple Calla Lily, an herbaceous perennial known for its gorgeous, extremely dark blooms. This variety features large black-maroon spathes rising above narrow, glossy foliage lightly speckled with gray. It thrives in containers or massed in garden borders, offering bold color from early summer into early fall. Deer tend to avoid this plant. It grows to about 18 to 24 inches tall with a 12-inch spread, making it an excellent 'thriller' accent in container plantings. While beautiful, this is considered a high-maintenance plant requiring regular care and is toxic if ingested.
$14.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
864
/ 3268
#864 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-46%
Below average
Size
1
/ gallon container
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a bold, sophisticated focal point
- Floral designers needing long-lasting, sturdy cut flowers
- Landscapers wanting consistent textural interest throughout the year
Who should skip it
- Gardeners struggling with soil drainage or overwatering
- Busy homeowners wanting low-maintenance, year-round outdoor plants
- Pet owners or parents with curious young children
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Deep, dramatic blooms provide a sophisticated focal point for any garden.
Maintenance Demand
Requires consistent attention and care to maintain its striking aesthetic.
Container Versatility
Perfectly sized for use as a dramatic thriller in mixed planters.
Pest Resistance
Natural deer resistance keeps your garden safe from common browsing wildlife.
Safety Profile
Toxic properties necessitate careful placement away from pets and small children.
Floral Utility
Sturdy stems and unique color make these excellent for fresh arrangements.
Key Specs
Size
1 gallon container
Maturity Height
18 to 24 inches
Maturity Spread
12 inches
Spacing when massed
Approximately 8 inches apart
Growth Rate
Medium
Estimated Lifespan
Approximately 10 years
Toxicity
Parts are known to be toxic to humans and animals
Features
- Features bold, black trumpet-shaped flowers with plum purple overtones
- Glossy, narrow leaves remain dark green with distinctive gray spots
- Excellent for cutting
- Suitable for accent, mass planting, general garden use, and container planting
- Upright habit makes it ideal for container 'thriller' placement
- Deer resistant
What customers say
Consumers consistently celebrate the exceptional quality and striking aesthetic appeal of the Purple Calla Lily. Reviewers frequently highlight the plant's robust health upon purchase and the stunning, true to color deep purple blooms. The vibrant design and impressive longevity of the flowers make this a standout choice for both indoor and outdoor displays. While some note the premium price point, the superior quality and visual impact generally confirm its strong value proposition, making it a highly recommended garden centerpiece.
Know before you buy
For a dense, uniform look in a garden bed, space your Purple Calla Lilies approximately 8 inches apart.
No, this plant is toxic if ingested. It is best to place it in an area that is inaccessible to curious pets or children.
Yes, the striking black-maroon spathes are excellent for cutting. They make a dramatic addition to indoor vases and floral displays.
High-maintenance in this context means the plant requires consistent moisture, regular fertilization, and careful monitoring to thrive. It is not a 'set it and forget it' variety and will need frequent attention to look its best throughout the growing season.
These plants are generally deer resistant, making them a safer choice for gardens that frequently experience wildlife pressure.
Because of its upright habit and bold color, this lily works best as a 'thriller' plant. Place it in the center or back of your container to provide height and a dramatic focal point, surrounded by lower-growing filler plants.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$15