What colors do calla lilies come in?

Beyond the White: Dipping into the Colorful World of Calla Lilies

Calla lilies. Just the name conjures up images of elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers, doesn’t it? And those lush green leaves! While most of us immediately think of the classic white variety, you might be surprised to learn that these beauties actually come in a whole rainbow of colors. Seriously, there’s a calla lily for just about every garden and every occasion.

Forget Just White: Get Ready for a Color Explosion

Okay, let’s be honest, the traditional white calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) is a stone-cold classic. It just screams purity, innocence, and all that good stuff. That’s why it’s so popular for weddings. But thanks to some clever plant breeders, the calla lily color palette has exploded! We’re talking way beyond just white here.

So, what else is out there? Well, some of the most popular colors include:

• Yellow: Picture this: a sunny burst of pure joy in your garden. That’s what you get with yellow calla lilies. They symbolize gratitude, friendship, all those warm fuzzy feelings. And varieties like ‘Acapulco Gold’? Seriously, they’re like sunshine in a flower.
• Orange: Need a little confidence boost? Orange calla lilies are your go-to. They’re bold, they’re lively, they make a statement. Plus, that rich orange looks incredible against the green leaves.
• Pink: Want to show someone you care? Pink calla lilies are perfect for conveying appreciation and admiration. Think of them as a floral hug. ‘Captain Rosette’ is a real winner in this category, with those delicate pink blooms.
• Red: Talk about drama! Red calla lilies are all about courage, passion, and sheer beauty. They can range from a deep, velvety crimson to a bright, fiery scarlet. Prepare to turn heads.
• Purple: Feeling a little regal? Purple calla lilies exude elegance and mystery. They’re associated with royalty, passion, and a certain je ne sais quoi. ‘Captain Promise’ is a standout, with its rich purple hues.
• Dark Maroon/Near-Black: Okay, they’re not actually black, but these deep, dark shades are incredibly sophisticated. They symbolize elegance, mystery, and even a touch of “farewell.” Think of them as the LBD (little black dress) of the flower world. ‘Night Cap’ is a must-see, with its almost-black, chalice-shaped flowers.

Two-Tone Terrific

And it doesn’t stop there! Many calla lilies are bi-colored, showing off a mix of shades in one bloom. ‘Picasso’ is a great example, starting with white edges that gradually reveal a deep purple throat. It’s like a secret hiding inside the flower! Then there’s ‘Fire Dancer,’ with its golden blooms edged in red. Seriously, these are showstoppers.

Spathes, Spadixes… What’s What?

Quick botany lesson: that “petal” you see? It’s not actually a petal. It’s a modified leaf called a spathe. The real flowers are tiny and packed onto that spike in the center, called the spadix. Usually, the spadix is yellow, but it can come in other colors too, adding another layer of interest.

Say it with Color

Don’t forget, the color of a calla lily can send a message. White for weddings, sure. But yellow for a thank you? Absolutely. Pink for a friend you admire? Perfect. Red for… well, you get the idea.

So, whether you’re trying to jazz up your garden, create a killer bouquet, or just say something special, the amazing colors of calla lilies give you a whole lot to play with. Go explore! You might just find your new favorite flower.