Calla Lily: An Elegant Symbol Of Purity And Beauty
Hello Weekly Whorlers! This week we talk about the Call Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica), a flower that is often associated with elegance and sophistication. It's trumpet-shaped blooms and long graceful stems effortlessly captures attention. Although not really a Lily, or even having real petals, it's striking appearance has gained it worldwide notoriety, and a rich history. Lets jump right in to our roll-call and Call on Calla Lily!
How We Got Here: The History Of Calla Lily
The Calla Lily, hailing natively from wetlands in Southern Africa, has a fascinating journey through time that spans continents, scientific discovery, and cultural symbolism.
It is not entirely understood how and when the Calla Lily first made its way to Europe, but there are illustrations as early as 1664, depicting them in the Royal Garden of Paris, suggesting that they had been cultivated as ornamental plants prior to that.
In the 18th Century it was first names as a true Lily in the genus Calla, however, a century later it was determined to be distinct enough from the true lilies and gained its own genus Zantadeschia. Even after the scientific name change, Calla Lily, its common name, was already widespread and stuck, leading to its common misconception that it is actually a Lily!
Named after the Greek word "kallos" or beauty, it was said to have sprang from the milk of Hera when drops fell to the earth while she was sleeping. Another tale links it to Venus, who, upon seeing the beauty of the pure white bloom, felt her own beauty to be challenged and cursed the flower with an unsightly pistil.
From the Victorian Era up to modern times, the Calla Lily has been a symbol of purity, beauty and innocence. It has been popularized through the use of it in formal occasions, religious symbolism, and modern artworks such as Georgia O'Keefe.
Versatile Uses and Tips
The versatile and stunning bloom can be used to elevate any occasion or space. It remains a favorite for wedding bridal bouquets and floral decor due to its symbolic meaning of purity, marital bliss and devotion, as well as funerals and memorials as it also warrants peace and remembrance.
The Calla Lily can be an excellent addition to the right garden, adding a touch of exotic essence to borders, beds or containers. They thrive in sunny to partially shaded locations with well draining soil that is kept consistently moist, with an ideal temperature between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Many varieties can also be grown indoors as houseplants, helping filter your air and elevating your space.
Did You Know?
Calla Lilies are not true Lilies and the main white "flower" is actually called a Spathe, which is a modified leaf which encapsulates the tiny flowers found on the inner stalk, or spadix.
Although most people associate them with white, there are also varieties that come in yellow, orange, pink, purple, red and even almost black hues.
They are toxic if ingested due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation and swelling.
They have a very long vase-life and are highly prized in the floral industry for that aspect.
They are more closely related to peace lilies and philodendrons than to a true Lily.
We hope you enjoyed Calling on the elegant Calla Lily! Whether gracing a special occasion or adding a touch of elevated flare, you can trust that these beauties are sure to leave a lasting impression.