The Calla, unlike its name, is actually a part of the Araceae family of flowers, and its scientific name is Zantedeschia. Each goblet-shaped flower is formed by one small to large circular spathe that spirals up and around a central stamen. Calla stems are similar to tulips, although often thinner and hollow, making them quite bendable and fragile flowers. There are many types of Zantedeschia, from the larger white Arums, including the Green Goddess variation, to the smaller varieties that come in luscious fruity shades of red and orange.
The Calla flower means ‘magnificent beauty’, and has many uses in floristry. Often, Callas will be used for modern corporate arranging, due to the recent popularity of the flower and their lack of scent. Many brides-to-be request Callas specifically, because of their soft colours and gorgeous romantic shape.
Callas are native to South Africa, but also grow wild as a weed in the South West of Australia. Depending on the species of Zantedeschia, they can grow in below freezing temperatures, and generally flower in Spring. The Calla plant grows best in wet conditions, making it a great flower to grow by ponds.