Calla vs Olive Tree Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Calla
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Zantedeschia aethiopica, commonly known as Calla Lily, is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial prized for its elegant, trumpet-shaped spathes (modified leaves) that surround a central spadix. While often called a lily, it is not a true lily. It grows from rhizomes, producing large, arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves. It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in moist conditions. People grow it for its striking flowers, often used in bouquets and floral arrangements. It can be grown indoors, but requires specific conditions to thrive and may not flower as readily as outdoors.
Olive Tree
Olea europaea
The Olive tree (Olea europaea) is an evergreen tree or shrub, known for its silvery-green leaves and fruit, the olive. It is a long-lived plant, often grown for its ornamental value, edible olives, and olive oil production. While it can be grown in containers, it thrives outdoors in warm climates with full sun. Indoor cultivation presents challenges due to its high light requirements and need for a distinct winter dormancy period. People grow it for its Mediterranean aesthetic and potential fruit production.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Calla | Olive Tree |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near an east- or west-facing window. | Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) |
| Watering | Every 3-7 days during the growing season, less frequently in winter. | Every 2-4 weeks, depending on environmental conditions and pot size. Less frequent in winter. |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 30-50% |
| Temperature | 18-24°C | 15-27°C |
| Care Level | Moderate | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Slow |
| Max Height | Indoors: 0.6-1 meter | 2-3 meters (indoors in containers); 8-15 meters (outdoors) |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ✅ Safe |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost is suitable. | Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil. A mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite is suitable. |
| Beginner Friendly | With Caution | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 10 minutes weekly | 30 minutes weekly (watering, fertilizing, pest control) |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Calla
| Scientific Name | Zantedeschia aethiopica |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Native To | South Africa |
| Also Known As | Calla Lily, Arum Lily, Trumpet Lily |
| Leaves | Large, arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves. The leaves can be up to 45 cm long and 25 cm wide. Some varieties have speckled or variegated leaves. |
| Flowers | Can flower indoors with proper care, but more reliably flowers outdoors. The 'flower' is a modified leaf called a spathe, which is typically white, but can also be pink, yellow, orange, or purple. The spadix, the yellow spike in the center, is where the true flowers are located. |
Olive Tree
| Scientific Name | Olea europaea |
|---|---|
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Native To | Mediterranean Basin |
| Also Known As | Olive, European Olive |
| Leaves | The leaves are lanceolate (long and narrow), about 5-8 cm long, and have a distinctive silvery-green color due to tiny scales on the underside. They are evergreen and arranged oppositely on the branches. |
| Flowers | Olive trees can flower indoors, but it is rare and requires very specific conditions. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, appearing in clusters in spring. Pollination is required for fruit production, which can be achieved by hand-pollinating indoors. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Calla
Olive Tree
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Calla
Methods: Division, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Divide rhizomes in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure each division has at least one eye (bud). Plant divisions in well-draining soil and keep moist. Seed propagation is possible but slower.
Olive Tree
Methods: Stem cuttings, air layering, seed (difficult)
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Use rooting hormone and provide bottom heat. Air layering is also a viable option.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Calla
The Calla Lily is not a true lily, but a rhizomatous perennial with a unique spathe and spadix flower structure. Its elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers make it a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. It requires a dormant period in winter to promote flowering in the following season.
- ✓ Aesthetically pleasing flowers.
- ✓ Can be used for cut flower arrangements.
- ✓ Adds a touch of elegance to any room.
- ✓ Can improve mood and reduce stress.
- ✓ Provides a sense of accomplishment through successful care.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Olive Tree
The Olive tree is known for its longevity, often living for hundreds of years. Its silvery-green foliage and gnarled trunk create a distinctive Mediterranean aesthetic. It's also one of the few fruit-bearing trees that can be successfully grown in containers, although fruiting indoors is challenging.
- ✓ Provides a Mediterranean aesthetic
- ✓ Offers potential for olive production
- ✓ Drought-tolerant once established
- ✓ Long-lived and can become a cherished heirloom
- ✓ Can improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide
- 🐾 Pet Safe
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Calla
Olive Tree
🌞 Light Requirements
Calla
Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near an east- or west-facing window.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Olive Tree
Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Calla
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in the dormant period. Overwatering can lead to rhizome rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and a foul odor. Underwatering results in wilting and browning leaf tips.
Olive Tree
Allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Signs of underwatering include drooping leaves and dry, brittle soil. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and soggy soil.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Calla
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Olive Tree
Temperature: 15-27°C
Humidity: 30-50%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Calla
Zantedeschia aethiopicaExperienced plant enthusiasts seeking a flowering plant with elegant blooms, willing to provide specific care requirements.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You appreciate elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers.
- You can provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
- You are willing to provide a dormant period in winter.
- You are experienced with plant care and can address potential problems.
- You want a plant that can be used for cut flower arrangements.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that may ingest the plant.
- You cannot provide bright light or consistent moisture.
- You are a beginner plant owner.
- You prefer low-maintenance plants.
Olive Tree
Olea europaeaExperienced plant enthusiasts in warm climates who can provide ample sunlight and proper care.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You live in a warm climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You want a low-maintenance tree once established.
- You appreciate the Mediterranean aesthetic.
- You are interested in potentially harvesting your own olives.
- You have experience with challenging plant species.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You live in a cold climate with limited sunlight.
- You are a beginner plant owner.
- You do not have a sunny outdoor space.
- You are looking for a low-effort indoor plant.
- You are not prepared to provide a cool winter dormancy period.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Calla is rated Moderate care level, while Olive Tree is Expert.
Calla has moderate growth, while Olive Tree grows slow.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Calla Care Tips
Calla Lilies require bright light and consistent moisture. They can be grown indoors, but may not flower as readily as outdoors. Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome rot. Toxicity to pets is a significant concern. Requires a dormant period in winter.
- Provide a dormant period in winter by reducing watering and keeping the plant in a cool location.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome rot.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season to promote flowering.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and treat promptly.
- Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth and flowering.
Olive Tree Care Tips
Olive trees are best suited for outdoor environments with ample sunlight. Indoor cultivation is challenging due to high light requirements, humidity control, and the need for a cool dormancy period. Consistent watering and proper fertilization are essential for healthy growth.
- Provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
- Provide a cool, dry dormancy period in winter.
- Prune annually to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Calla
Olive Tree
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Calla
What are the light requirements for Calla?
Calla lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so avoid placing them in south-facing windows without some form of shading. An east- or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without the intensity of direct sun. If you notice the leaves becoming pale or the plant failing to bloom, it may not be receiving enough light. In such cases, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights. During the darker winter months, supplemental lighting is particularly beneficial to maintain healthy growth and encourage future blooms. Ensure the light is diffused to prevent leaf burn. Regular rotation of the plant ensures all sides receive adequate light, preventing uneven growth.
How do I care for Calla?
Calla lilies require bright, indirect light for optimal growth and blooming. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring proper drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to encourage flowering. Reduce watering and fertilization during the dormant period in fall and winter. Maintain a humidity level of 50-60%. Repot annually in spring using well-draining potting mix. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites, and treat promptly if detected. Provide support for taller varieties to prevent them from bending. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth and prevent leaning towards the light source. Protect from frost and freezing temperatures.
How do I propagate Calla?
Calla lilies can be propagated by division, stem cuttings (though less common), and keiki (small plantlets that sometimes form on the plant).
Olive Tree
What are the light requirements for Olive Tree?
Olive Trees require abundant sunlight to thrive indoors. Ideally, place your Olive Tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A south-facing window is often the best option. If direct sunlight is limited, supplement with grow lights. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced fruit production (though fruit production is rare indoors). Rotate the plant regularly to ensure all sides receive adequate light. During the winter months, when sunlight is less intense, consider moving the plant closer to the window or increasing the use of grow lights.
How do I care for Olive Tree?
Olive Trees thrive indoors with proper care. Provide bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for Mediterranean plants. Maintain a stable temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring/summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot every 2-3 years, increasing pot size gradually. Monitor for pests like scale or spider mites and treat promptly. Provide good air circulation. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth. Avoid overwatering, which is a common cause of problems.
How do I propagate Olive Tree?
Olive Trees can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from new growth in spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. Place the cutting in a warm, humid environment. For air layering, make a small incision on a branch and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with tape. Keep the moss moist. Roots should develop within a few weeks. Once roots have formed, cut the branch below the rooted area and plant it in a pot.
Last updated: April 30, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.