It is a South African plant that is easily cultivated in our country, because the climatic conditions of Greece are similar to the African country. It is not a bulbous, as many believe, but a rhizomatous plant. The fleshy rhizome produces large, soft green leaves, arrow-shaped, and when the temperature does not drop too low, they remain on the plant almost all year round. The callus is considered world-famous for two reasons: for its flowers and for its large leaves that reach 20 cm in length and 10 cm in width, respectively. There are many shades of flowers, monochrome and bicolor. The flowers appear in winter or spring on a long stem, while the plant can reach a height of one meter.
Care
The callus usually grows in the wild, in swamps, so whoever wants to host it in his garden or on his balcony, must keep in mind that the plant loves moisture in its roots. In the beginning it needs a little water and a gradual increase in the amount of water, while during the period of its full development it should be watered generously. In summer, however, it is better not to water the plant so much that it finds time to rest. It loves sunny places, but can grow successfully in semi-shady places, while it can not stand the extreme cold, because its African origin does not allow it. It needs a good foliar soil as well as the addition of fertilizer with organic elements every year for the plant to be strong. But callus can also be grown as an indoor plant. In October you can plant a rhizome in a pot and transfer it indoors. It is placed in a bright place, because it needs direct sunlight, for several hours of the day. You must make sure that the temperature does not exceed 15 οC during this period and for 3 months. If it is taller the plant will live, but its flowering will be reduced.
Storage and multiplication
When the flowering period is over, the callus plants should go through a dormant period. During this period, you should limit until the plants are dry and dry. If you have planted the calluses in pots, stop watering and move the plant to a dark area when the foliage begins to fade. Although the rhizomes of calla can remain in the ground all year round in warmer climates, it is best to dig them up and store them somewhere cooler.
Dig up the rhizomes in the fall, usually after the first frosts, and shake them to remove any soil. Allow them to air dry for a few days before storing them for the winter. The rhizomes of the callus should be stored in peat and kept in a cool, dry place, preferably dark, until the spring when they will be replanted. Of course, you can start planting callus rhizomes indoors during the late winter and transplant them outdoors in the spring. Callus rhizomes can also divide during their dormant period.
