Red is a bred colour
The wild Zantedeschia aethiopica is white. Red, orange, yellow, pink and near-black callas come from other species in the genus and from hybrids between them, developed over the last century. Reds range from bright scarlet to dark crimson and burgundy, and the darkest ones are sometimes sold as "black" callas. The leaves are often speckled with silvery white, a feature of the species they came from.
What does red mean?
Red callas are bolder than white ones. In the language of flowers, red is the colour of passion, and the elegant shape of the calla adds a note of drama. People who ask about the meaning of a red calla lily are usually choosing a flower for an anniversary or a special dinner rather than a formal ceremony.
Not an arum lily weed
Coloured callas grow from tubers rather than the spreading rhizome of the white arum lily, and they die back in winter. In general they behave differently in the garden:
- Plant tubers in spring after the frost, about 5 cm deep in rich, well-drained soil.
- Give them sun or light shade and plenty of water while they are in leaf.
- Expect flowers in summer, followed by yellowing leaves in autumn.
- In winter, keep the pot dry or lift the tubers and store them cool.
They do not do as well in the humid tropics, where tubers may rot.
Pet safety around red callas
Callas contain calcium oxalates, and the ASPCA lists them as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Keep a red calla vase out of reach of pets.
