​Calla Arabian Night

Calla ‘Arabian Night’ is the definition of dramatic elegance. Its sleek, sculptural blooms are a deep, velvety near-black (often with hints of rich plum in certain light), creating a bold, luxurious look that instantly upgrades summer pots and borders. Each flower rises proudly above glossy green foliage, making the whole plant feel modern, striking and wonderfully “designed” even when planted quite simply.

It’s brilliant for patio containers, where you can appreciate the depth of colour up close, and it also works beautifully in borders as a standout accent among brighter summer flowers. The blooms are long-lasting and make superb cut flowers too—perfect for contemporary arrangements. Give it warmth, moisture and regular feeding and it will reward you with weeks of stunning flower spathes right through summer.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Calla (Zantedeschia) bare roots/rhizomes in spring once the soil is warming. Avoid planting during hard frosts or into waterlogged ground.

Where to Plant:
Choose a warm, sheltered position in sun or partial shade with moist but well-drained soil. Callas are perfect for patio pots, containers and summer borders. In cooler areas, containers are ideal so plants can be protected over winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant rhizomes about 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve soil with compost. In heavy soils, add grit to aid drainage.

Watering:
Water after planting and keep the soil lightly moist as growth starts. Once in full growth, water more regularly, especially in pots, but do not let the plant sit in stagnant water.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed every 1–2 weeks in summer for best flowering, especially in containers.
• Remove faded blooms and yellowing leaves to keep plants tidy.
• Callas are tender: before first frost, lift rhizomes or move pots to a frost-free place to overwinter.

Top Tip:
For the richest colour, give ‘Arabian Night’ warmth and plenty of light. It looks stunning paired with silver foliage plants or bright, zingy summer bedding.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

June - September

Height:
16–24" (40–60cm)

Position:
Full sun / partial shade (sheltered)

Tender Perennial:
Often grown as a summer plant in the UK (overwinter frost-free)