Calla Lilies Sold as Perennials in Northern Illinois: Not Hardy, Must Be Lifted

A Northern Illinois gardener bought a "perennial" calla lily from Walmart, doubting its hardiness. He planned to return it next spring for a refund.

Hardiness Reality

Tom confirmed calla lilies are not hardy in Northern Illinois. Rhizomes must be lifted after first frost, cleaned (not washed), and stored cool, dark, and dry. He agreed big-box stores often sell non-hardy plants without proper labeling, as staff lack horticultural training. He prefers independent nurseries for accurate advice.

Follow-Up: Labeling Fraud

The gardener noted the grower's label claimed "perennial – comes back year after year," calling it fraud. Tom concurred, criticizing corporations that prioritize quick profits over honesty. He advocated for mandatory hardiness zone labeling on plant tags.

Know your zone and verify hardiness before buying; big-box labels can be misleading.