'Mercedes' is one of Wendy's Faves this season...this is what she has to say:
Glowing shades of yellow and orange trumpet- shaped flowers that seem to last forever, is why I chose Calla Mercedes. The colours are vibrant and the spotted green leaves are abundant. Every Calla bulb produces multiple flowers and lots of leaves, it’s like a bouquet in a bulb!
Think apricots. Think cantaloupe. Think tangerines! Now you have a picture of the ‘fruity’ colours of Mercedes. A visual feast in your garden.
Calla Lilies can be grown in sunny, sheltered borders or as an emergent under-water plant in shallow ponds or bogs. They also make excellent container plants that will bloom for weeks. We suggest planting them at least 12 in - 30 cm apart in rich soil with a liberal supply of humus. If planted outside, Calla lilies must be lifted before the danger of frost and stored frost-free in boxes covered with dry peat. You can also enjoy your Callas indoors in pots. Position them in a sunny spot but protect them against full sun at midday. Use a rich potting soil and water sparingly until growth starts.