Flowers That Look Like Calla Lilies: A Guide to Similar Blooms

Flowers that look like calla lilies are a popular choice for those who love the elegant and sophisticated look of the calla lily but want to try something different. While the calla lily is known for its long stem and trumpet-shaped flower, there are several other flowers that share a similar appearance. These flowers come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them a versatile choice for any garden or floral arrangement.

One of the most popular flowers that look like calla lilies is the Zantedeschia, also known as the arum lily. This flower is native to South Africa and is often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces due to its elegant appearance. It comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and yellow, and is known for its long vase life.

Another flower that resembles the calla lily is the peace lily. While it is not a true lily, it shares a similar hooded spathe and glossy green foliage. The peace lily is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens. With a moderate height of about 1-3 feet, it is a great option for those who want a smaller version of the calla lily.

Identifying Flowers Similar to Calla Lilies

Calla lilies are known for their trumpet-shaped blooms and elegant appearance, making them a popular choice for weddings, bouquets, and other special occasions. However, there are other flowers that have similar physical characteristics to calla lilies. In this section, we will discuss the physical characteristics of calla lily look-alikes and popular varieties that resemble calla lilies.

Physical Characteristics of Calla Lily Look-Alikes

Calla lilies have a unique appearance with a funnel-shaped spathe and spadix in the center, which is surrounded by a leaf-like bract. Some of the physical characteristics that are similar to calla lilies include:

• Shape: Many calla lily look-alikes have a similar trumpet shape with a narrow base that flares out at the top.
• Color: Calla lilies come in a range of colors, including white, pink, orange, purple, yellow, and red. Similarly, some of the flowers that resemble calla lilies also come in these colors, such as roses, lavenders, and petunias.
• Leaf shape: Calla lilies have large, arrow-shaped leaves that are smooth and glossy. Some of the plants that look like calla lilies also have similar leaf shapes, such as the black elephant ear plant.

Popular Varieties Resembling Calla Lilies

Here are some of the popular varieties of flowers that resemble calla lilies:

• Zantedeschia aethiopica: This plant is commonly known as the white calla lily and is the most well-known variety. It has large, white trumpet-shaped blooms and glossy, arrow-shaped leaves.
• Arum italicum: This plant is also known as Italian arum and has large, arrow-shaped leaves with white veins. It produces small, white flowers that are similar in shape to calla lilies.
• Calla palustris: This plant is also known as bog arum and has smaller, white flowers that are similar in shape to calla lilies. It grows well in wet or boggy soil.
• Anthurium: This plant has glossy, heart-shaped leaves and produces large, colorful spathes that are similar in shape to calla lilies. They come in a range of colors, including red, pink, orange, and purple.

In conclusion, there are several flowers that have physical characteristics similar to calla lilies. By understanding the physical characteristics of calla lily look-alikes and popular varieties that resemble calla lilies, you can choose the perfect flowers for your special occasion.

Cultivation and Care for Calla Lily-like Flowers

Calla lily-like flowers are easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for gardens, containers, and cut flower arrangements. In this section, we will cover the growing conditions and maintenance tips for these beautiful flowers.

Growing Conditions and Planting Tips

Calla lily-like flowers are perennials that grow well in zones 8 to 10. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They can be planted in borders, near ponds or streams, or in containers on patios. These flowers are also great for cutting gardens and make beautiful additions to bridal bouquets and Easter flower arrangements.

To plant calla lily-like flowers, start by selecting a variety that suits your needs. There are many cultivars available, including pink, burgundy, coral, and spotted varieties. Some popular options include the Zantedeschia aethiopica, also known as the Jack-in-the-pulpit, and the Arisaema triphyllum, also known as the golden calla.

When planting, make sure to choose a well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Plant the rhizomes about 2-3 inches deep, with the growing side facing up. Water the soil well after planting, and then water sparingly until the leaves have sprouted. Once the leaves are present, water more frequently to keep the soil moist.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Calla lily-like flowers are relatively easy to maintain, but there are a few common issues to watch out for. Deadheading spent blooms and removing yellowing leaves will help keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth. These flowers are also susceptible to aphids and slugs, so regular pest control measures may be necessary.

In the fall, calla lily-like flowers will go dormant. During this time, it is important to reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out completely. Once the leaves have died back, carefully dig up the rhizomes and store them in a cool, dry location until spring.

When fertilizing calla lily-like flowers, use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to bacterial soft rot and other problems.

In conclusion, calla lily-like flowers are easy to grow and care for, making them a great addition to any garden or home. With proper planting and maintenance, these flowers will provide beautiful blooms year after year.