Welcome to the fascinating world of Calla Lilies! These elegant and versatile flowers are a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or a budding enthusiast, there's always something new to learn about these captivating blooms. So, buckle up, and let's embark on a botanical journey to explore the diverse types and varieties of Calla Lilies.
The Basics of Calla Lilies
Before we dive into the different types and varieties, let's get to know the basics. Calla Lilies, scientifically known as Zantedeschia, are not true lilies. Surprise, surprise! They belong to the Araceae family, which also includes the likes of peace lilies and philodendrons. Originating from Africa, these beauties are known for their trumpet-shaped flowers, called spathes, and their arrow-shaped foliage.
Calla Lilies come in a variety of colors, sizes, and patterns, making them a versatile choice for any garden or bouquet. They are also quite hardy and can thrive in a range of conditions, although they do prefer a good amount of sunlight and well-drained soil. Now that we've covered the basics, let's delve into the different types and varieties of Calla Lilies.
Types of Calla Lilies
There are generally two main types of Calla Lilies: the Zantedeschia aethiopica, or the common white Calla Lily, and the Zantedeschia rehmannii, or the colored Calla Lily. Let's take a closer look at each type.
Zantedeschia aethiopica
The Zantedeschia aethiopica, often referred to as the common white Calla Lily, is known for its large, pure white spathes and bright yellow spadices (the central spike of the flower). This type of Calla Lily is a perennial and can grow up to 1 meter tall. It's a popular choice for weddings and funerals due to its elegant and sophisticated appearance.
There are several varieties of the Zantedeschia aethiopica, including the 'Green Goddess', which has green-tipped spathes, and the 'Crowborough', which is more cold-hardy than other varieties. These varieties offer a twist on the classic white Calla Lily and can add a unique touch to your garden or bouquet.
Zantedeschia rehmannii
The Zantedeschia rehmannii, or the colored Calla Lily, is known for its smaller, colored spathes. These can range from pink to purple, orange, yellow, and even black. The colored Calla Lily is a tuberous perennial and is often grown for its vibrant and colorful flowers.
Some popular varieties of the Zantedeschia rehmannii include the 'Black Star', which has deep purple, almost black flowers, and the 'Fire Dancer', which has bright orange flowers. These varieties can add a pop of color to your garden or bouquet and are sure to catch the eye.
How to Grow Calla Lilies
Now that you're familiar with the different types and varieties of Calla Lilies, you might be wondering how to grow these beauties. Well, you're in luck! Calla Lilies are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Calla Lilies prefer a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. They are typically planted in the spring and will bloom in the summer. To plant Calla Lilies, simply place the bulbs 4 inches deep in the soil and water them well. They should be spaced about a foot apart to allow for growth.
Once your Calla Lilies are planted, they require minimal care. Just make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry periods, and remove any spent flowers to encourage more blooms. With a little care and attention, your Calla Lilies will thrive and provide you with beautiful blooms year after year.
FAQs about Calla Lilies
Let's address some common questions about Calla Lilies.
- Are Calla Lilies poisonous?
Yes, all parts of the Calla Lily are poisonous if ingested, so it's important to keep them out of reach of children and pets.
- Can Calla Lilies be grown indoors?
Absolutely! Calla Lilies can be grown indoors as long as they receive plenty of sunlight. They make a great addition to any indoor plant collection.
- Do Calla Lilies come back every year?
Yes, Calla Lilies are perennials, which means they can come back year after year. However, in colder climates, the bulbs may need to be dug up and stored indoors over the winter.
There you have it, a comprehensive guide to the diverse world of Calla Lilies. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding plant enthusiast, we hope this guide has inspired you to add some Calla Lilies to your garden or home. Happy planting!
