The Brunello Calla Lily (Zantedeschia ‘Captain Brunello’) is a striking ornamental plant, admired for its unique beauty. Its elegant appearance makes it a favored choice for enhancing gardens, indoor spaces, and floral arrangements.
Characteristics of Brunello Calla Lily
Brunello Calla Lilies feature distinctive fluted, chalice-shaped blooms in warm shades of apricot, peach, and orange. These vibrant flowers are framed by wavy, sword-like dark green leaves, often speckled with white or silver. Plants generally reach 12 to 26 inches (30-66 cm) tall, with a spread of 9 to 24 inches (23-61 cm). They bloom for 6 to 12 weeks, from early to mid-summer.
Planting Brunello Calla Lilies
Plant Brunello Calla Lily rhizomes in spring after frost danger has passed and soil temperature reaches 55-65°F (13-18°C). Select healthy, firm rhizomes. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Prepare well-draining, organically rich soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Amend heavy soils with organic matter to improve drainage. Plant rhizomes 3 to 4 inches (8-10 cm) deep with growing tips facing upwards, spacing them 12 inches (30 cm) apart. Water thoroughly after planting, then sparingly until initial leaf growth appears.
Care and Maintenance
Brunello Calla Lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade; bright, indirect light is optimal. In warmer regions, provide afternoon shade to prevent scorching. Keep soil consistently moist during active growth, allowing the top inch to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Ideal soil is rich, well-draining, and consistently moist. Incorporate organic matter for fertility and drainage. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every two to three weeks during active growth until flowers fade. Optimal temperatures range between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Remove faded flowers and yellowing foliage to promote continuous blooming.
Common Issues and Solutions
Common problems for Brunello Calla Lilies often link to improper environmental conditions. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root rot. Ensure well-draining soil and allow the top layer to dry between waterings to prevent this.
Pests like aphids and spider mites can cause distorted growth or discolored leaves. Manage infestations with a mild soap solution or insecticidal soap. Fungal diseases (e.g., powdery mildew, leaf spots) may occur. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected parts. Apply fungicides if needed.
Winter Care and Dormancy
Brunello Calla Lilies are tender perennials, hardy in USDA Zones 8-10, where rhizomes can remain in the ground with mulching. In colder climates (Zones 7 and below), lift rhizomes before the first hard frost. Once foliage yellows and dies back, reduce watering and cease fertilization to encourage dormancy.
After foliage dies, cut it back to 2-4 inches (5-10 cm). Dig up rhizomes, brush off excess soil, and cure them in a warm, dry place with good air circulation for 7-10 days at 60-75°F (15-24°C). Store cured rhizomes in a cool, dark, dry location (40-59°F / 4-15°C) in a breathable container (e.g., mesh bag, cardboard box with peat moss). Check periodically for rot or pests.