When it comes to floral arrangements, few blooms are as stunning and elegant as the calla lily. Also known as Zantedeschia, this flower has been a popular choice for weddings, funerals, and other special occasions for many years. But beyond its physical beauty, the calla lily is also rich in symbolism and meaning.
What do calla lilies symbolize, you may ask? The answer is quite fascinating. In general, calla lilies are associated with purity, innocence, and rebirth. They are often used to symbolize new beginnings, representing a fresh start or a new chapter in life. The trumpet-like shape of the flower adds to this symbolism, as it suggests a call to action or a clarion call for change.
Calla lilies are also commonly associated with spirituality and faith. In the Christian tradition, the calla lily is a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is due to the flower’s ability to lie dormant during the winter months and then bloom anew in the spring. Additionally, calla lilies have been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries, further cementing their status as a symbol of healing and renewal.
History and Cultural Significance of Calla Lilies
Calla lilies have a rich history and cultural significance that dates back to ancient times. They have been admired and used by different civilizations for various purposes, and their symbolism has evolved over time.
- In Ancient Greece, calla lilies were associated with the goddess Hera, who was considered the queen of the gods. According to myth, Zeus, the king of the gods, gave Hera a calla lily as a symbol of her purity, and it soon became the emblem of her temple.
- During the Victorian era, calla lilies gained popularity as a symbol of sophistication and elegance. They were often featured in wedding bouquets and other formal arrangements.
- In Christian symbolism, calla lilies are associated with the Resurrection of Jesus. The trumpet-like shape of the flower is said to represent the trumpet that will sound on Judgment Day when the dead will rise from their graves.
Table: Calla Lily Colors and their Meanings
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| White | Purity and innocence |
| Yellow | Gratitude and joy |
| Pink | Admiration and appreciation |
| Purple | Passion and royalty |
| Black | Mystery and death |
Calla lilies are also used in different cultures for a variety of purposes. In China, calla lilies are believed to bring good luck and were traditionally planted in gardens to ward off evil spirits. In South Africa, calla lilies are associated with death and rebirth and are often used in funerals and memorial services. Overall, calla lilies remain a popular flower choice today due to their elegance, grace, and versatility in various occasions.
Varieties and types of calla lilies
Calla lilies are not only known for their symbolic meaning of beauty and purity, but also for their wide range of varieties and colors. Here are some of the most popular types of calla lilies:
- White Calla Lilies: This is the most common type of calla lily and the one that most people picture when they hear the name. They symbolize purity and innocence.
- Pink Calla Lilies: These represent admiration and appreciation. They are perfect for congratulating a friend or loved one on an achievement.
- Purple Calla Lilies: These signify charm and grace. They are a symbol of royalty and are often used in weddings and other special events.
- Black Calla Lilies: Despite their name, these are not actually black, but a dark purple shade. They are unique and exotic and symbolize elegance and sophistication.
- Yellow Calla Lilies: These are a symbol of gratitude and are often given as a thank-you gift. They also represent joy and happiness.
In addition to these colors, there are also many different varieties of calla lilies, each with their own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Mini Calla Lilies: These are smaller versions of the traditional calla lily and are perfect for arrangements and bouquets.
- White Giant Calla Lilies: As the name suggests, these are the largest type of calla lily and are perfect for making a statement in a floral arrangement.
- Green Goddess Calla Lilies: These have a greenish-yellow hue and are often used in tropical or exotic-themed floral designs.
With so many different types and colors of calla lilies to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect flower to convey your message of love, appreciation, or sympathy.
Calla lilies in art and literature
Calla lilies have been an inspiration for many artists and writers throughout history. Their delicate look and rich symbolism make them a popular subject matter for paintings and literary works. Here are some of the most notable examples:
- Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings: The American artist Georgia O’Keeffe was famous for her depictions of calla lilies. Her large-scale paintings of the flower, often shown in close-up, became iconic pieces of modernist art.
- Tennessee Williams’ play: In Tennessee Williams’ play “A Streetcar Named Desire”, the character Blanche DuBois refers to calla lilies as a symbol of death. This symbolism is used to foreshadow the tragic ending of the play.
- Pablo Neruda’s poem: The Chilean poet Pablo Neruda wrote a poem called “Ode to the Calla Lily”. In the poem, he compares the flower to a woman, praising its beauty and elegance.
Calla lilies have also been featured in many other literary works and art pieces, ranging from romantic novels to still life paintings. The flower’s association with purity, innocence, and rebirth has made it a popular symbol in different cultures and artistic movements.
Symbolism of Calla Lilies in Different Cultures
Calla lilies have been a popular flower in multiple cultures and hold a variety of symbolic meanings. One of the most fascinating aspects of these flowers is how the same bloom can represent totally different things depending on the culture or religion in which it’s found. From ancient mythology to modern day traditions, the calla lily’s history is rich with symbolism and deeper meanings.
Symbolism of Calla Lilies in Different Cultures: The Significance of the Number 4
The number four is a sacred number in many cultures, and it’s no different in the symbolism of calla lilies.
- In Asia and China, the number four represents death, so presenting someone with a bouquet of four calla lilies would be a faux pas. Instead, even numbers are preferred for gifts and bouquets.
- In the Islamic religion, calla lilies (which are known as Arum lilies) play a part in the rituals of mourning and death. Muslims consider the number four to be lucky and use four calla lilies in funeral arrangements.
- Christianity believes that the number four represents the cross and also associate it with creation, stability, and the material world.
| Culture | Number 4 Significance |
|---|---|
| Asia and China | Represents death |
| Islamic religion | Lucky number used in funeral arrangements |
| Christianity | Represents the cross and creation |
Regardless of the number of stems in a bouquet, calla lilies are a stunning and versatile flower that have a rich history of symbolism in all corners of the world. They can represent love, purity, death, and even resurrection, depending on the context in which they are used.
Calla lilies as wedding flowers
Calla lilies have become one of the most popular choices as wedding flowers. Its sophistication and timeless elegance make it perfect for wedding ceremonies. Its beauty and grace make it a perfect symbol of the couple’s love and commitment to each other.
- Symbolism: Calla lilies symbolize purity and innocence, making it a perfect choice for weddings.
- Color choices: Calla lilies come in different colors. White calla lilies, which is the most popular, symbolize the couple’s purity of intention. Meanwhile, pink and purple calla lilies represent admiration and romantic gestures. Yellow calla lilies, mean gratitude and platonic love.
- Bouquets and decor: Calla lilies can stand alone as a bouquet, or it can be combined with other flowers. Calla lily arrangements can also include different varieties, colors, and sizes of calla lilies to create a unique and eye-catching look.
Calla lilies can also be incorporated into the decorations for the wedding ceremony. They can be used as centerpiece arrangements or placed along the aisle. Moreover, using calla lilies for the bridal and groom’s boutonnière is also a stylish and elegant option.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Calla lilies are available in different colors, making it easy to fit the wedding theme | Calla lilies can be expensive compared to other flowers |
| Its simple and elegant appearance makes it perfect for small weddings | Calla lilies can wilt easily, so it is best to avoid using them for outdoor weddings |
| Calla lilies have a strong stalk and can last for longer periods compared to other flowers. | The pollen from white calla lilies can stain dresses or suits |
In conclusion, calla lilies are a perfect choice for wedding ceremonies. The symbolism and color varieties make it easy to incorporate them into the wedding theme and decor. Although they can be expensive and prone to wilting, its simple yet elegant appearance and long-lasting ability make calla lilies worth the investment.
Calla lilies in funeral arrangements
When someone passes away, it’s important to choose the right flowers to honor and remember their life. Calla lilies are a popular choice for funeral arrangements due to their elegant beauty and powerful symbolism. Here are some of the ways calla lilies are used in funerals:
- Funeral sprays: Calla lilies are often incorporated into traditional funeral sprays to express sympathy and offer comfort to the grieving family. These sprays feature a mix of flowers and greenery arranged in a rectangular shape, and are typically displayed on an easel or stand at the funeral service.
- Casket arrangements: Another popular way to use calla lilies in funerals is in a casket arrangement. These arrangements are placed on top of the casket and can come in a variety of styles, from simple and elegant to more elaborate designs. Calla lilies are a stunning addition to any casket arrangement and can help convey a message of strength and inner beauty.
- Standing sprays: Standing sprays are often used to decorate the area where the casket is displayed during a funeral service. These arrangements are typically tall and can be seen from a distance, helping to create a sense of grandeur and reverence. Calla lilies can be incorporated into these sprays to offer a message of admiration and respect.
Many people also choose to give calla lilies as a sympathy gift to the family of the deceased. This can be a thoughtful gesture that helps to express your condolences and offer support during a difficult time. While there’s no right or wrong way to use calla lilies in a funeral arrangement, they are a powerful symbol of rebirth and renewal that can offer comfort and hope to those in mourning.
| Color of Calla Lilies | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| White | Purity, innocence, and sympathy |
| Yellow | Gratitude, joy, and new beginnings |
| Pink | Admiration, gratitude, and appreciation |
| Purple | Mystery, spirituality, and royalty |
When choosing calla lilies for funeral arrangements, keep in mind the color symbolism. White is the most common choice and represents purity, innocence, and sympathy. Pink can be used to express admiration and appreciation, while yellow symbolizes gratitude, joy, and new beginnings. Purple calla lilies are a symbol of mystery, spirituality, and royalty, making them a great choice for someone who held a special place of honor in your life.
The symbolism and beauty of calla lilies make them a meaningful choice for funeral arrangements. Whether used in a traditional spray or casket arrangement, or gifted to the family as a sympathy gesture, calla lilies can help express your condolences and offer comfort during a difficult time.
Growing and Caring for Calla Lilies
As one of the most elegant and beautiful flowers, calla lilies are beloved by many gardeners and flower enthusiasts. These flowers symbolize different things depending on the color, but they are generally associated with purity, rebirth, and overcoming challenges. So, it’s no wonder that many gardeners want to grow and take care of these flowers. Here, we’ll cover some tips for growing and caring for calla lilies, including the number 7 subsection below.
- Choose the right location: Calla lilies require plenty of sunlight and moist, well-drained soil to grow properly. Ideally, they should be planted in a spot that gets morning sunlight and afternoon shade. Avoid planting them in areas that are prone to flooding or that are too exposed to direct sun.
- Plant them at the right time: Calla lilies should be planted in the spring after the last frost or in the fall in warm climates. They can also be grown indoors as long as they have enough light and water.
- Provide adequate water: Calla lilies need to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, they don’t like to be sitting in water, so it’s important to make sure that the soil has good drainage.
- Fertilize carefully: Calla lilies don’t require a lot of fertilizer, but they can benefit from a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the flowers to wilt.
- Control pests: Calla lilies can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and other pests. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and treat them with an appropriate insecticide if necessary.
- Deadhead regularly: To encourage more blooms, it’s important to remove spent flowers regularly. Use a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut off the stem just below the flower.
- Divide every few years: Calla lilies can become overcrowded and need to be divided every two to three years. To do this, dig up the clumps in the fall after the foliage has died back, separate the individual rhizomes, and replant them at the same depth.
The Number 7 Subsection
The number 7 is often associated with spiritual awakening, inner wisdom, and intuition. In the context of calla lilies, there are a few interesting connections. For example, the calla lily has 7 petals, which many people believe represents the 7 chakras, or energy centers, of the human body. Additionally, in numerology, 7 is considered a lucky number, which may be why some people give calla lilies as gifts for good fortune or to express appreciation. Of course, how you interpret the number 7 is up to you, but it’s interesting to consider the various meanings and associations surrounding this number and how they relate to these beautiful flowers.
Conclusion
With a little attention and care, calla lilies can thrive and delight gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. By following these tips for growing and caring for calla lilies, you can enjoy the beauty and symbolic depth of these wonderful flowers for years to come.
| Recommended Varieties | Colors |
|---|---|
| Zantedeschia ‘Captain Amigo’ | White with yellow center |
| Zantedeschia ‘Picasso’ | White with dark purple center |
| Zantedeschia ‘Flame’ | Orange-red |
| Zantedeschia ‘Schwarzwalder’ | Dark purple-black |
These are just a few of the many varieties of calla lilies available, so be sure to do some research and find the ones that suit your taste and growing conditions best.
Medicinal properties of calla lilies
The calla lily is known for its stunning beauty and sophisticated look. However, not many people are aware of its medicinal properties. Calla lilies have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. In this section, we will be discussing the medicinal properties of calla lilies in-depth.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Calla lilies are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help in reducing inflammation in the body. The leaves of calla lilies contain compounds like flavonoids and alkaloids, which have been found to be effective in treating arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
- Astringent properties: The roots and leaves of calla lilies are known to possess astringent properties that can be used to stop bleeding. They are also effective in treating wounds and bruises as they help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Blood-clotting properties: The juice of calla lilies has been found to possess blood-clotting properties. This makes it very effective in treating bleeding disorders like hemophilia.
Calla lilies are also known to possess other medicinal properties such as:
- Anti-cancer properties
- Antibacterial properties
- Pain-relieving properties
If you are planning to use calla lilies for medicinal purposes, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Calla lilies can cause allergies in some individuals and can also interact with certain medications.
| Medicinal Properties | Part of the Plant Used |
|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory properties | Leaves |
| Astringent properties | Roots and leaves |
| Blood-clotting properties | Juice |
Overall, calla lilies are not just beautiful flowers, but they also possess several medicinal properties that can be beneficial for our health. However, it is important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid any adverse effects.
Calla lily tattoos and their meanings
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, and floral designs such as calla lilies are among the top choices for many people. These tattoos not only look beautiful but also carry various symbolisms that the wearer may resonate with. Here, we explore what calla lily tattoos signify:
- Femininity: Calla lilies are often associated with femininity, elegance, and grace. The trumpet-shaped bloom of the flower symbolizes the female reproductive organ, making it a popular choice among women.
- Purity: White calla lilies are known for their purity and innocence. They are often used as a symbol of new beginnings and rebirth.
- Spirituality: Calla lilies have religious and spiritual symbolism, particularly in Christianity, where it is associated with the resurrection of Jesus.
If you plan to get a calla lily tattoo, it is essential to consider various factors such as the design, placement, and color. The choice will depend on the wearer’s preferences and the symbolism they wish to convey. A reputable tattoo artist can help you design a unique calla lily tattoo that represents your personality and style.
Finally, it is worth noting that the number nine has a specific meaning in calla lily tattoos:
| Number | Meaning |
|---|---|
| One | Individuality and uniqueness |
| Three | Trinity, divine guidance, and intuition |
| Nine | Completeness, spiritual enlightenment, and fulfillment |
If you are intrigued by numerology, you may consider adding more calla lilies to your design to represent different aspects of your life or personality.
Mythology and Folklore Associated with Calla Lilies
The calla lily is a flower that has been held in high regard for centuries. There are many myths and legends surrounding this elegant bloom, and its symbolism has been a source of fascination for people all over the world. Throughout history, these beautiful flowers have been associated with many different stories and cultures, each with their own unique interpretations.
One of the most interesting aspects of calla lily symbolism is the association with the number 10. In many cultures, the calla lily is believed to symbolize the tenth wedding anniversary. This is based on the idea that the calla lily represents the purity and innocence of a new marriage, as well as the long-lasting commitment that comes with ten years of union.
- In Greek mythology, the calla lily was associated with the goddess Hera. According to legend, Zeus was born on Crete and was hidden in a cave on Mount Dikti. As an infant, he was fed by a goat named Amalthea, who broke off one of her horns to provide him with milk. The horn was filled with flowers, including the calla lily, which came to symbolize the nurturing and protective qualities of the goddess.
- In Christian symbolism, the calla lily represents the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This association is based on the fact that the calla lily blooms around Easter time, and its pure white petals are believed to represent purity and grace.
- In Chinese culture, the calla lily is known as the “Pig Slaughtering Orchid,” and is believed to have been named after a famous poet who wrote about the flower. According to legend, the poet was so moved by the beauty of the calla lily that he wrote a poem on the spot. This poem became famous throughout China, and the flower became a symbol of artistic inspiration and creativity.
The table below provides a quick summary of some of the other cultural symbolism associated with the calla lily:
| Culture | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Aztec | Fertility |
| Victorian | Elegance and beauty |
| Victorian | Elegance and beauty |
| Native American | Sacredness and strength |
The calla lily is a flower that has been held dear by many cultures throughout history. Its symbolism has been a source of inspiration and fascination for centuries, and its beauty and elegance continue to captivate us today.
FAQs About What Calla Lilies Symbolize
1. What is the general meaning of calla lilies?
Calla lilies are associated with purity, faithfulness, and holiness. They are often used in religious ceremonies or to represent rebirth and new beginnings.
2. What do white calla lilies symbolize?
White calla lilies symbolize innocence, virtue, and purity. They are often used in weddings, christenings, and other religious ceremonies.
3. What do yellow calla lilies symbolize?
Yellow calla lilies symbolize gratitude and joy. They are often given as gifts to express appreciation or cheer up someone who is feeling down.
4. What do pink calla lilies symbolize?
Pink calla lilies symbolize admiration and appreciation. They are often given as gifts to show someone how much you value and respect them.
5. What do black calla lilies symbolize?
Black calla lilies symbolize mystery and elegance. They are often used in formal events or to create a dramatic and sophisticated look.
6. What do calla lilies represent in different cultures?
In Chinese culture, calla lilies symbolize purity, youthfulness, and elegance. In Greek mythology, calla lilies were associated with the goddess Hera and represented her beauty and grace.
7. Are calla lilies used for any specific occasion?
Calla lilies are commonly used in weddings, funerals, and other special occasions. They make a beautiful centerpiece for any event, and their meaning can add an extra layer of symbolism and significance.
Closing Words:
Thank you for reading about what calla lilies symbolize. These beautiful flowers hold so much meaning and can make a wonderful gift for any occasion. Remember to visit us again for more flower insights and inspiration. Have a lovely day!