Wild Calla
Calla palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Wild Calla is a native wetland perennial found across northeastern and midwestern states, producing white spathe flowers from June through August in boggy areas and wet soils.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, IL, IN, MA and 14 more states
Wild calla is a low-growing native wetland perennial with heart-shaped leaves and distinctive white spathe flowers that bloom through summer. This plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial shade, making it ideal for bog gardens, pond edges, or areas with poor drainage.
Growing Wild Calla
Grow Wild Calla in part shade and high water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Calla takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires very wet conditions that may create muddy areas
- Wetland appearance conflicts with typical lawn-based landscaping
- May spread aggressively in optimal conditions
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various flies and beetles that serve as pollinators, while the berries provide food for waterfowl and other wetland birds.
Common questions
- Where does Wild Calla grow naturally?
- Wild Calla is native to wetland areas across 21 states including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
- When does Wild Calla bloom?
- Wild Calla blooms from June through August, producing distinctive white spathes that surround small yellowish flower clusters.
- What growing conditions does Wild Calla prefer?
- Wild Calla thrives in consistently wet to boggy soils and tolerates partial sun to full shade conditions, making it ideal for wetland gardens and pond edges.
- Is Wild Calla HOA-friendly?
- Wild Calla takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Wild Calla? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz