The Calla Lily is a flower that is often linked to two significant qualities- beauty and purity. The reason for this is because the majority of Calla Lilies are white, which is typically associated with the Greek goddess Hera. Furthermore, they are often used as a symbol of marriage and commitment. During the Victorian era, people used Calla Lilies to signify magnificent beauty. They also conveyed the message of “I am yours”. It’s no wonder why these beautiful flowers are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and centerpieces. They are also frequently included in funeral arrangements as a way to represent purity and beauty.
The Calla Lily, also known as Zantedeschia, is a flowering plant native to South Africa and comprises over eight species. Interestingly, despite its name, it is not an actual lily. The mistake in naming was made by Carolus Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist, and has remained since then. The Calla Lily has been popular since ancient Greece and Egypt. Today, it is still one of the most commonly used flowering plants.
The name “Calla Lily” originates from Greece, where “calla” means “beautiful.” It is said that the name is derived from the Greek goddess Hera, according to Greek mythology. Legend has it that when Zeus brought his son Hercules to drink milk from Hera, she pushed him away, causing some milk to spill. The milk that landed on the ground turned into beautiful lilies. However, another goddess, Venus, grew jealous of their beauty and cursed them with a yellow pistil, resulting in the Calla Lily’s association with jealousy and lust.
The Calla Lily’s symbolism extends to Christianity, where it symbolizes resurrection and rebirth and is associated with Jesus Christ. The plant’s spiritual meaning varies depending on its color, with each color representing something different. For instance, the White Calla Lily, the most popular variety, is associated with purity, innocence, faithfulness, and holiness. On the other hand, the Orange Calla Lily represents passion and enthusiasm, while the Purple signifies royalty and admiration. The Black Calla Lily is associated with mystery and power, while the Yellow is linked to gratitude and friendship. Finally, the Pink represents admiration, joy, and happiness.
The orange calla lily, sometimes mistaken for the red calla lily, boasts a magnificent reddish-orange hue that is truly breathtaking. This variant is uncommon and some even consider it rare. Its color symbolizes courage, boldness, and determination, making it an ideal gift for someone embarking on a new phase in their life.
Purple calla lilies are grandiose to look at. These come in both light and dark shades, each with a unique meaning attached to it. They are a bit more common and can easily be found in flower beds. They represent royalty, wisdom, loyalty, and admiration, so they are perfect for giving to people you hold dear.
Although not technically black, the deep purple shade of the black calla lily is a sight to behold. These lilies are rather special and have a high rarity, making them difficult to find. They represent elegance, mystery, and beauty, thanks to their stunning color.
Yellow calla lilies are easy to find and grow, making them a popular variant after white calla lilies. They represent gratitude, although they can also symbolize jealousy due to their story. They make for great gifts for people you are grateful for.
Lastly, the pink calla lily is another rare variety known for its stunning appearance and divine fragrance. It represents love, romance, and appreciation, making it the perfect gift for that special someone you simply can’t get enough of.