Calla lilies are popular garden plants, admired for their elegant blooms. Gardeners often wonder if rabbits eat them.
Do Rabbits Eat Calla Lilies?
While rabbits may occasionally nibble on various garden plants, they generally avoid calla lilies. This is because calla lilies contain calcium oxalate crystals throughout the plant. These microscopic, needle-shaped crystals act as a natural deterrent, causing immediate irritation upon contact or ingestion.
However, a rabbit’s diet can be influenced by circumstances. Young or hungry rabbits, especially during periods of scarce food, might take exploratory bites. Despite this, the irritating nature of the plant usually prevents them from consuming large quantities.
The Dangers of Calla Lilies to Rabbits
Calla lilies pose a significant health risk to rabbits due to their insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a rabbit chews on any part of the plant, these sharp crystals can embed themselves in the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. This physical irritation leads to immediate discomfort and various symptoms.
Common signs of poisoning in rabbits after ingesting calla lilies include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and visible irritation or swelling of the mouth and tongue. Affected rabbits may also experience difficulty swallowing, oral pain, or a reduced appetite. While rabbits cannot vomit, gastrointestinal distress such as diarrhea can occur. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention promptly.
How to Protect Your Calla Lilies
Protecting calla lilies from rabbits involves a combination of physical barriers and deterrents to make your garden less appealing. Fencing is a highly effective method, as rabbits are primarily ground-level feeders. A fence constructed with chicken wire or woven mesh, no larger than one inch, can provide a good barrier.
The fence should be at least 24 to 36 inches high to prevent rabbits from jumping over it. To deter digging, bury the bottom of the fence approximately six inches deep, bending the buried portion outward in an L-shape away from the plants. Regularly inspect fences for any holes or weak spots that rabbits might exploit.
Repellents can also be used as an additional measure, though they often require consistent reapplication, especially after rain. Commercial options containing ingredients like putrefied egg solids or animal-based deterrents are available. Some gardeners also find success with natural repellents such as garlic or chili-based sprays, or by sprinkling strong-scented substances like black pepper or Irish Spring soap around plants.
Companion planting involves placing plants that rabbits dislike near your calla lilies. Rabbits tend to avoid plants with strong scents, bitter tastes, or rough textures. Examples include alliums, marigolds, yarrow, and certain herbs like mint or basil. Additionally, removing potential hiding spots for rabbits, such as tall weeds, brush piles, or low-growing shrubs, can help make your garden less attractive to them.