Calla

Blog by Nancy Forrest

One plant that grows in abundance in my yard is the Calla (Zantedeschia aethiopica). This morning, after the rain, I noticed the first bloom and beginning of the Calla plants “patch” that comes up every year in my side yard. The Calla is from the Zantedeschia genus and belongs to the Araceae family. The petal is actually a special kind of leaf called a bract. They are loved for their trumpet-shaped blooms (in assorted colors) and sturdy stems. The plant is Native to South Africa; it thrives in USDA zones 8–10. It does well indoors with indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering. However, it is toxic to pets. 

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They are symbolic of many things in many cultures. In Greek Mythology, the Calla was said to come from the milk of the goddess Hera. In the Christian religion, at Easter, the white Calla represents Jesus’ resurrection and hope. In the Chinese culture, they represent purity, love, good fortune, and rebirth. 

 Calla Lilies are used very often in floral arrangements, from funerals to weddings, due to their symbolism and their various colors  (see chart below). [1]