Traditionally, when we think of the Calla Lily, we picture those classic, elegant white blooms. Because they look so sophisticated and serene, they’ve long been a go-to for sympathy arrangements and memorials. But here’s the exciting part: plant breeders have been busy! These days, you can find Calla Lilies in a stunning rainbow of colors, making them perfect for just about any occasion you can imagine.
A Calla Lily for Every Color Palette
You aren’t limited to just white anymore when you head to the garden center. Modern Calla varieties come in some seriously bold, eye-catching shades. Breeders have developed a full spectrum of colors, so you can find them in hues like:
- Sunny Pale Yellow
- Soft Apricot
- Vibrant Pink
- Deep Purple
- Almost Black
If you want something even more unique, look for bicolor varieties. These have a gorgeous contrast where the outer spathe (the petal-like leaf) is one color—often white—while the throat of the flower is a different shade. Take the “Vermeer” variety, for example; it features a deep violet center that really pops against the white. Another great look is a Calla with a bright, golden-yellow spadix (that’s the little spike in the middle), which adds a wonderful decorative touch.
Caring for Your Colorful Callas
It’s worth noting that these colorful hybrids have slightly different needs than the classic white varieties. While they both appreciate a cycle of wet and dry periods, colorful Callas generally prefer a warmer spot. While white varieties are happy around 60–68°F, the colorful types really thrive when things are a bit toastier, ideally between 65–72°F.
How to Use Colorful Callas
Calla Lilies are a staple for weddings, funerals, and everything in between. Now that they come in so many shades, you can match them to any event’s vibe. Because of their tall, architectural shape, they also look incredible as a single stem in a minimalist vase. Whether you go with classic white or a bold pop of color, they are guaranteed to be a conversation starter.
If you’re using them as cut flowers, you can expect them to last up to three weeks if you treat them right! To keep them fresh, make sure the cut is straight and clean, using a very sharp, sanitized knife. One quick safety tip: always wear gloves when handling them. Every part of the Calla Lily is toxic, so you’ll want to keep that sap off your skin!