Bear Grass & Calla Lilies

Calla Lilies

• Calla lilies are sensitive tropical and subtropical plants that grow for years from rhizomes, or bulbs. The plants grow in small 12-inch cultivars and giant 3-foot varieties, and always feature distinctive tube-shaped flowers. These plants bloom in mid- to late-summer with the right care.

Bear Grass

• Bear Grass is an American native, and grows in open meadows and valleys of the western mountains. This member of the lily family grows long, olive-colored leaves in thick munches, with fan-like spreads. The plants produce tall flower stalks in summer, with stacks of creamy white or yellow blooms. Flower stalks grow from 4 to 6 feet tall.

Sites

• Calla lilies and bear grass both do best in full sunshine, though they tolerate some filtered or dappled shade. Calla lilies won't bloom in full, deep shade. Both plants require plenty of space and quick site drainage.

Soil and Planting

• Amend the bed to a depth of 12 inches with 5 inches of organic compost for both calla and bear grass planting. Both plants do well with this rich, loose foundation. Mix 5-10-5 or 5-10-10 granular fertilizer into the top 6 inches of soil for more starting nutrition. Plant calla lily bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep, with 1 to 2 feet of space, and place bear grass around the edges of the bed as a border.