Common Names
- Calla Lily
- Arum Lily
- Zantedeschia
Scientific Name
- Zantedeschia spp.
Family & Genus
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Zantedeschia
Description
Calla lilies are distinguished by their sleek, trumpet-shaped spathes, which come in a wide range of colors, including classic white, deep purples, pinks, oranges, yellows, and reds. The spathe is a modified leaf that wraps around the spadix, a central spike covered in tiny flowers. The flowers are often set on tall, slender stems that grow from thick, arrowhead-shaped, green leaves. This combination of a smooth, curved spathe and central spadix gives Calla lilies their distinctive, minimalist beauty, making them popular in modern floral arrangements.
Habitat & Origin
Native to Southern Africa, Calla lilies grow in wet, marshy areas and thrive in warm, sunny environments. They have adapted well to various climates and are widely cultivated in gardens and greenhouses worldwide. In colder regions, they’re often grown as annuals or potted plants.
Symbolism & Meaning
- Purity and Innocence: The classic white Calla lily is associated with purity, making it popular in wedding bouquets and arrangements.
- Beauty and Elegance: The flower’s sleek form is often linked to refined beauty and sophistication.
- Resurrection and Rebirth: Calla lilies are frequently associated with resurrection and rebirth, making them common in religious and funeral arrangements.
- Passion: Brightly colored varieties, like red and yellow Calla lilies, symbolize love and passion.
Uses
- Ornamental: Calla lilies are popular in garden beds, borders, and container gardens for their striking form and wide color range.
- Cut Flowers: Their elegance and durability make them popular in cut flower arrangements, especially in formal or minimalist settings.
- Wedding and Funeral Flowers: Due to their symbolism, Calla lilies are often used in bridal bouquets, boutonnieres, and funeral arrangements.
Flower Care
Calla lilies prefer moist, well-drained soil and bright, indirect light, though they can tolerate partial shade. They need regular watering, especially during active growth and blooming periods. In floral arrangements, Calla lilies can last up to two weeks; they benefit from clean water and cutting the stems at an angle for better water absorption.
Flowering Season
Calla lilies typically bloom from late spring to early summer outdoors, though indoor or greenhouse-grown plants can bloom at various times of the year. With proper care, they can be encouraged to rebloom indoors during winter months.
Varieties & Hybrids
- Zantedeschia aethiopica: The classic white Calla lily, also known as the arum lily, with large white spathes and green leaves.
- Zantedeschia 'Pink Melody': Known for its soft pink spathes and compact growth, making it ideal for containers and small arrangements.
- Zantedeschia 'Black Star': A striking, deep purple to black Calla lily with dark stems, popular for unique and dramatic floral arrangements.
- Zantedeschia 'Flame': A vibrant orange and yellow variety that resembles the colors of a flame, adding warmth to any arrangement.