The calla lily is not just a stunning flower; it holds a wealth of fascinating facts. From its elegant shape to its symbolism, let’s explore the intriguing world of calla lilies and uncover the secrets and beauty of these beautiful flowers.
Is the Calla Lily a Real Lily?
No, despite its name, calla lilies are not real lilies. This flower is from the genus Zantedeschia and is a member of the Araceae family from Southern Africa. In the seventeenth century, the flower was brought over to Europe, and since then, appears in many parts of the world. The word calla comes from a similar sounding Greek word meaning beautiful. While the calla lily is beautiful in appearance, all parts of the plant are poisonous. Calla lilies come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, purple, pink, and red.
The Unique Shape of the Calla Lily
The shape of the calla lily is like a spiral. A single petal starts with a wide top and spirals around its bright yellow floral spike, called a spadix, which attracts pollinating insects. The deep green leaves are thick and pointed at the tip.
Calla Lily Popular Symbolism and Meaning
The various colors of calla lilies are rich with symbolic meaning. Here are some insights from Windflower Florist:
White Calla Lilies: purity and innocence
Yellow Calla Lilies: joy and growth
Pink Calla Lilies: admiration and appreciation
Red Calla Lilies: passion and love
Purple Calla Lilies: charm and warmth
Other symbolisms include rebirth and rejuvenation. Calla lilies are a popular choice for celebrations, anniversaries, weddings, and even funerals.
The Calla Lily in Art
The calla lily flower is a favorite for artists due to its symbolism and simple, graceful shape.
Artwork by O’Keeffe, Matisse, and Pechstein used under Public Domain or Fair Use License.
More on intriguing designs: What’s Behind The Unique Shape of the Brandy Glass
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