Are White Calla Lilies Deer and Mole Proof?

Calla Lilies

• Calla lilies are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. Home gardeners in colder climates sometimes grow them as annuals or houseplants. The plants grow best in rich, moist soils and in full sun or partial shade. In general, the warmer the climate, the more afternoon shade is needed. Unlike some bulb plants, which may rot in wet soil, these plants will tolerate wet conditions, making them a good choice for planting around a pond or in low-lying areas. Indoor plants should be located by a sunny window where they will get indirect but bright light.

Deer

• Calla lilies are seldom severely damaged by deer, according to Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Although they may eat the buds, they do not eat the rhizomes nor will they decimate the foliage. Deer may trample the plants, however, and if they are hungry enough, they will eat just about anything. Calla lilies make excellent container plants, so if you really want to protect them from ravenous deer, consider planting your callas in a container in a protected location, such as on a balcony or on a lighted deck near the house where deer rarely venture.

Moles

• Moles are insectivores. They eat bugs, not bulbs, but that doesn't mean they won't damage your calla lilies. The damage they do is inadvertent, however. Sometimes moles damage or destroy calla lilies and other flowering bulbs as they create their underground tunnels. In addition, mice often follow the tunnels to find the bulbs, which they then consume.

Considerations

• White calla lilies are relatively deer and mole proof. Although this may encourage you to plant them in your landscape, there is one other important consideration: They are highly toxic. In fact, they can be fatal if ingested, according to North Carolina State University. For this reason, it's best to cultivate these plants well away from pets and young children.