Everything you need to know about

Zantedeschia

Zantedeschia, or do you know them better as the Calla lily? Regardless of what you call them, there’s no denying they’re a captivating flower that is always popular and bang on-trend.

However, you only have to look at it to see why it never ceases to enchant florists and flower enthusiasts alike. Its sleek, elegant form and continually growing array of varieties make it a firm favourite in the flower world.

We promise that there are still things to be revealed about the Calla lily, regardless of how much or little you know already. This comprehensive guide will share intriguing insights and fascinating florist industry details about Zantedeschia. So, if you’re ready to discover what makes this flower truly unique, let’s take a look. 

Orange Calla Lily representing the ultimate guide

What we'll cover:

General info

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Florist info

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Points of Interest

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Buying info

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Care guides

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General Zantedeschia Cut Flower Information

How it looks:

Calla lilies are elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers that stand out for their simplicity and grace. Their blooms are made up of a single, curved spathe that wraps around a central spike. The flower’s head rises gracefully from slender stems.

The texture of the flower, and especially the stem, is smooth and fleshy. In the right hands, most varieties can be manipulated to curve, sometimes to the extent of being circled around entirely. Regardless of how they’re displayed, they showcase a sleek form, sculptural quality, and provide a striking silhouette.

The Calla lily, with its refined appearance, provides an air of sophistication and timeless exquisite beauty. 

Grouping of Zantedeschia:

Zantedeschia Calla lily Odessa

Whilst we are using the term ‘Calla Lilies’ throughout this page, Zantedeschia is the genus that also includes ‘Arum Lilies’, this is reflected in the information below and throughout this page.

Zantedeschia are divided into three product groups by VBN (the Dutch Flower Auctions Association).

The Product Groups are:

  • Zantedeschia Product group no. 1 03 027 02 [Calla lilies]
  • Zantedeschia aethiopica Product group no. 1 03 027 01 [Arum lilies]
  • Zantedeschia Per Bunch Product group no. 1 03 027 03

Due to hybridisation, the defining differences between Zantedeschia aethiopica (product grp. 10302701) and Zantedeschia (product grp. 10302702) become less apparent. However, it is still fair to say that Zantedeschia aethiopica, or Arum lilies, are larger; both taller, with longer flower heads and fleshier stems that are considerably less flexible – have “no suppleness”*. Calla lilies are generally shorter, with more elegant flower heads and narrower stems, they are more flexible – have “suppleness of less than 90°”*.

The differences between the third group of ‘bunched Zantedeschia’ and ‘Zantedeschia’ are even less apparent, but still significant enough for these Calla lilies to be classified in a different ways, namely that they have “suppleness of more than 90°”*. 

*Specific grading criteria by VBN

Tell me more about 'Product Groups'

Group codes:
Whilst each flower and plant variety has it’s own product code they are classified into product groups. Each product group has a separate VBN group code. Categorising plants and flowers into groups with similar characteristics, is helpful on many levels; grading criteria and checks, and recording statistical information being just a couple.

As an example:
 Gerbera large flowered (grp 10100601) is a different group to Gerbera large flowered spider shaped (grp 10100607). Gerbera mini (grp 10100602) is a different group to Gerbera mini spider shaped (grp 10100608). Whilst each Gerbera group have many similar characteristics, they also have important differences, hence the different product groups.

Just some of the

Zantedeschia Varieties

The images below show some varieties of, firstly, Zantedeschia – Calla lilies and then, Zantedeschia aethiopica – Arum lilies. Whilst the images illustrate some of the visual difference, as already highlighted, the visual differences between the two groups aren’t always so obvious.

Calla Lily Varieties:

Calla Lily Serenade

Calla Lily Goldcup

Calla Lily Captain Melrose

Calla Lily Callista

Calla Lily Odessa

Calla Lily Captain Ventura

Zantedeschia calla lily Auckland

There are currently around 319 different varieties of commercial Calla lily cut flowers available. Although new varieties are being developed all the time.

Arum Lily Varieties:

Arum Lily ‘Colombe de la Paix’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Arum Lily ‘Green Goddess’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Arum Lily ‘Pink Mist’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Arum Lily ‘Highwood’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

 Arum Lily ‘Grace’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Arum Lily ‘Eydolls purple white’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Arum Lily ‘Avalanche’

Zantedeschia aethiopica

There are currently around 24 different varieties of commercial cut flower Arum lillies. Again, as with all flowers new varieties will come along.

Classification Names:

Family: Araceae

Genus: Zantedeschia

Common Names:

As well as the common names of:

  • Calla Lily
  • Arum Lily

Zantedeschia can also be known as:

  • Pig Lily
  • Mapoch lily
  • altar lily
  • Ethiopian arum

Pronunciation

Zantedeschia are pronounced: Zan-teh-dee-sha

Fragrant:

Commercial Zantedeschia are not considered to be fragrant.

Vase life:

← – 6 – 12 days – →

Available in these Colours:

  • White (pure white to cream and buttermilk shades)
  • Yellow (lemon to vibrant bright yellow)
  • Pink (from blush through to vibrant mid pinks and fuchsia pink) 
  • Red (There is a range of reds from Pink red to dark maroon – however, not a brilliant pillar box red, as yet)
  • Lilac – Purple 
  • Orange (from blush peach and salmon shades, to dark burnt orange)
  • Green – Arum Lilies (generally bi-coloured white and green)
  • Black (as close as a flower gets very very dark purple/red)
  • Bi-coloured varieties (many have different tones in the flower head and some with striking contrasting tones and edges)

Zantedeschia availability throughout the year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Calla Lily Zantedeschia are available throughout the year.

Natural Season:

Calla Lilies are considered to be a Summer flower

Zantedeschia | Calla lilies originated from

Where Zantedeschia originated

Zantedeschia originates from southern Africa and its surrounding areas, extending as far north as Malawi

Florist Information

Product Group Number:

  • Arum lilies Zantedeschia aethiopica 10302701
  • Calla lilies Zantedeschia 10302702
  • Calla lilies Zantedeschia Per Bunch 10302703

Current Number of Varieties:

There are around:

  • 319 different varieties of cut flower Calla lilies
  • 24 different varieties of cut flower Arum lilies

Commercially available from:

1997 & 1998

(Zantedeschia aethiopica ‘Childsiana’ Arum lily were registered 08.07.1997 & Zantedeschia ‘Harvest moon’ Calla lily was registered 20.06.1988)

More about Product Group Number

Group codes:
Whilst each flower and plant variety has it’s own product code they are classified into different product groups. Each product group has a separate VBN group code. Categorising plants and flowers into groups with similar characteristics, is helpful on many levels; grading criteria and checks, and recording statistical information being just a couple.

As an example:
 Gerbera large flowered (grp 10100601) is a different group to Gerbera large flowered spider shaped (grp 10100607). Gerbera mini (grp 10100602) is a different group to Gerbera mini spider shaped (grp 10100608). Whilst each Gerbera group have many similar characteristics, they also have important differences, hence the different product groups.

Shape & Visual texture:

Shape: Cone form

More about flower shape

Shape and form are terms that are often used together but have two different meanings. Form is three-dimensional with width, height and depth. Whereas a shape is two-dimensional. As an example a tennis ball (or Craspedia head) have a spherical form, but a round shape.

Whilst most flowers have a three-dimensional form within floristry they are traditionally categorised in three basic ways:

  • Round – round materials are bold and generally have high visual impact
  • Line – line materials have directional pull that aids visual movement
  • Transitional – transitional materials (often called filler flowers) have smaller branching stems or sprays of small flowers. They are used to fill in and act as stepping stones between line and round materials

These are the categories we have used within this section.

Visual texture: Smooth

More about visual texture

Texture is the surface appearance and feel of any object, in our instance a flower or plant material. There are two main categories of texture: Actual texture – the feel of something, and  Visual texture – the way it looks. We are focusing our information on the ‘Visual texture’.

The visual texture is when something’s appearance gives the impression of the texture without having to touch it. Whilst there could be many ways of describing a visual texture we have limited ours to: Waxy e.g. Hoya or Cymbidium,  Rough e.g. eryngium, Glossy e.g. anthurium, Velvety e.g. celosia, Lacy e.g. Ammi majus, or fluffy e.g. Ageratum houstonianum. Whilst there could be countless descriptions of textures, we have selected these as they are stated in the Professional Floristry Manual Edited by Lynda Owen and published by the British Florist Association.

Florists appreciate the importance of visual texture of flowers and plant materials it adds impact, interest and contrast to a design.

Inflorescences & Stem type:

Inflorescences: Most of what is perceived as the “flower” of a Zantedeschia is, in fact, not a flower or a petal but a spathe—a large sheathing bract, which is a modified leaf. This spathe is wrapped around the spadix, the spike to which the flower clusters are attached. In the case of calla lilies, these are the bumps that run along the spike, which are completely indistinguishable as anything resembling a traditional flower at all!

About Inflorescences

Inflorescence is the categorised way that the flowers are arranged on a main axis/stalk/peduncle, stalk and by the timing of the flowering.

We will state the type of inflorescence from the following groups:

Single Inflorescence:

  • Single or solitary – single flower on an upright single stem, it can also be called terminal or axillary flower

Indeterminate Inflorescence:
(Monopodial (racemose) growth where the terminal bud can keep growing and the oldest flowers are at the base or outermost part of the flower and the newest at the top, central or innermost.)

  • Raceme – Flowers are attached to main stem by short stalk e.g. Antirrhinum, Phalaenopsis
  • Spike (or sometime called Sessile) – flowers are attached without stalks e.g. gladiolus
  • Spadix – A type of panicle but the flowers are really tightly packed, often surrounded by a spathe (we usually think of the spathe section as the flower and the spike; that actually is multiple tiny flowers, as a less significant part of the overall flower) e.g. anthurium and Zantedeschia
  • Panicle – highly branched racemes with multiple clusters on several branches e.g. syringa
  • Simple Umbel – Flower stalks arise from one point on the stem and are the same length e.g. allium
  • Compound Umbel – collection of simple umbels e.g. Ammi
  • Corymb – Flattened top with flowers of different stalk lengths e.g. achillea
  • Capitulum –  a flower head composed of many separate unstalked flowers close together e.g. asters, sunflower, single bloom Chrysanthemum. It looks like one flower, but is actually made up of multiple tiny heads together

Determinate Inflorescence:
(Sympodial (Cymose) growth where the terminal bud flowers first and prevents any further bud being developed on the stem. The oldest flowers are at the top, central or innermost and the newest at the bottom, or outermost.)

  • Simple Cyme –  These can be in different forms but all have the characteristic of the oldest flower being in the innermost section of the stem. e.g. spray chrysanthemum, ranunculus stem etc.
  • Helicoid Cyme – Successive flower heads are developed along one side of a single axis e.g. freesia
  • Scorpioid Cyme – Successive flower heads are developed from alternate sides of a single axis e.g. Myosotis
  • Dichasium Cymes (Double cymes) –  two flower buds occur in axils of bract behind terminal position
  • Mixed Inflorescence (A raceme of cymes) – multiple flower buds are developed along multiple flower axils e.g. Euphorbia fulgens (multi stemmed)

Stem type (General): Soft stem

Stem tissue type: Smooth | Soft stem

The effects of these stem types are in the Florist Care Information

About different stem types

Different types of cut flower (and foliage) stems behave differently. Understanding what type of stem the flower has give you a greater appreciation of how best to care care for the flower.

We have divided the flower stems into two categories their:

General stem type, these will include:

  • Woody – as the name suggests a woody inflexible stem that don’t often die down over winter
  • Semi woody – these stems are usually quite strong and have a combination of woody and soft fibres to different degrees
  • Soft & Bulbus stems – usually an annual summer flower or a spring bulb flower with a often with a fleshy stem
  • Hollow stems – again, as the name suggests a stem with a hollow centre (occasionally a very soft pulp centre) these hollow stems usually entirely fill with water
  • Latex stems – these stems exude or ‘bleed’ a milky substance call latex. Different plants have different strength of milky latex; some types of plant with this sap are sticky and can be an irritant to people and other flowers

Some flower may fall into two categories, e.g. narcissus and amaryllis are both hollow and a soft bulbus stem type, in these instances we will categorise them in the group that is most important to understand with these examples narcissus will be classes as a soft bulbus stem, whereas the amaryllis will be classes as a hollow stem.

Stem tissue type, these will include:

Different stem tissue types ‘pollute’ water in different ways, having an understanding about these as different stem tissue types means that you can act accordingly, both in their conditioning and continued treatment. This enables you to get the best out of them and importantly, the other flowers around them that could be negatively impacted without the right understanding and care.

Whilst some stem tissue titles may be similar to those above they may be different (and without an understanding of how and why we’re using both terms, may seem contradictorily).

  • Woody
  • Hairy
  • Smooth
  • Soft
  • Waxed.

Micro-organism bacteria are attracted to stems to a greater and lesser degrees depending on their stem tissue type. When micro-organisms ‘attack’ and begin decomposing flower stems it can negatively impact the flowers lasting ability and those in the same vase, or in some situations very close by.

Plant type:

Perennial

 

Phototropism:

Zantedeschia are phototropic, although not to an extent that it cause problems within designs (as phototropism can with other flowers).

About Tropism

Tropism is a growth response to an environmental stimulus. The direction is determined by the direction from which the stimulus strikes the flower or plant.

  • Positive = the flower or plant, or a part of it, grows in the direction from which the stimulus originates.
  • Negative = growth away from the stimulus.

Why is this important?

Flowers can have varying levels of phototropism – where they grow towards a light source. and this can hugely effect the flowers stems and the impact that has on a design.

A familiar example of this maybe sunflower heads facing towards the sun whilst growing, in a field of sunflowers this is an endearing phenomena.
However, if you were to place Gladioli into a design horizontally and the only light source was from above all the ends would turn upwards towards the light source, usually detrimentally impacting the desired look of the design. This happens with a whole range of flowers and is especially noticeable with line forms e.g. Antirrhinum, Matthiola, etc.

Flowers and Plants respond to:

Phototropism

As established this relates to the external stimulus of light

  • Light = phototropism. 
    • Stems are positively phototropic.
    • Roots are negatively phototropic.
  • Another phototropic characteristic is when light can effect the colour of flower. This is can be present in some varieties of roses, where the shade of the rose can change during it’s maturity, or the same variety can look a slightly different shade depending on the amount and type of light it receives whilst growing.

Geotropism

Directional growth of a plant as a result of earth’s gravitational forces

  • Gravity = Geotropism/gravitropism
    • Stems are negatively geotropic/gravitropic while
    • roots are positively geotropic/gravitropic.

The adaptive value of these tropisms is clear.

  • Roots growing down and/or away from light are more likely to find the soil, water, and minerals they need.
  • Stems growing up and toward the light will be able to expose their leaves so that photosynthesis can occur.

Ethylene sensitivity:

Zantedeschia (Calla and Arum lilies) are sensitive to Ethylene

 

Is it poisonous or harmful?

To Humans: Toxic & some may find the sap irritable
To dogs: Toxic
To Cats: Toxic

Whilst Zantedeschia are generally classed as toxic, some classify it with ‘medium severity’.All parts of the Zantedeschia plant contain calcium oxalate crystals. These are microscopic needle-like crystals that are released when the plant is handled, chewed, or bitten. Instant pain is the main symptom as these needle-like crystals are released inside the mouth, immediately followed by burning of the lips, mouth, gums, tongue, and throat. Sometimes, drooling can occur as swallowing is painful – this would be true for humans, cats, and dogs. Other times, it can cause nausea and vomiting and make voices hoarse.

As if the calcium oxalate crystals weren’t bad enough, enzymes that break down protein are also released, which contribute to inflammation. It’s said that life-threatening symptoms are rare; however, severe irritation of the throat and tongue can result in swelling, which can threaten to block the windpipe.

The same effect can occur on the skin (or in the eyes). The symptoms are limited to just the site of contact, like the mouth or eyes, and the calcium oxalate crystals do not break down in the body. Whilst this initially does not sound reassuring, it usually prevents whole-body poisoning (unless an unusually large amount is ingested). Not every exposed individual will develop symptoms. There are likely many florists who don’t find the sap irritating, whilst others may.

Zantedeschia | Calla lilies are commercially grown in:

The Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Colombian, Ecuador, Kenya, and Ethiopia. (We also have growers in the UK.)

Where Zantedeschia are commercially grown and imported into the UK

Number of countries that grow cut flower Clematis:

7

Number of growers of cut flower Clematis:

30 – 40

Top 3 growing countries of cut flower Clematis:

  1. The Netherlands
  2. Spain
  3. Portugal

Points of Interest

Meaning of the name:

Zantedeschia: The name Zantedeschia is derived from Giovanni Zantedeschi, an Italian botanist who lived in the 19th century.

Calla: The term “Calla” is derived from the Greek word “kallos,” which means “beautiful.” This reflects the flower’s elegant and striking appearance.

Language of flowers meaning:

In the Victorian language of flowers, Zantedeschia Calla / Arum lilies symbolise Magnificent Beauty.

Cultural and Symbolic meanings:

Symbolism:

  • Ancient Greek Mythology: The Calla lily was associated with Hera, the queen of the gods. Legend has it that Zeus brought (his illegitimate son) Hercules to nurse from his wife Hera while she slept, when she woke she and pushed Hercules away and drops of her milk that fell into the sky and created the milky way and drop that fell to the ground sprouted into Calla lilies.
  • Christianity: In Christian symbolism, the Calla lily represents purity, holiness, and faith. It’s often associated with the Virgin Mary and is often used in church decoration for Easter services to symbolise resurrection and rebirth.
  • Ancient Roman Culture: When Venus, goddess of love, beauty and desire first saw Calla lilies she became became instantly incensed with jealousy due to the attention their beauty was receiving. So she cursed them by placing a large yellow phallic pistil/spike in the centre, forever connecting them with lust and sexuality. Romans also associated the Calla lily with celebrations and festivities due to their chalice shape, often using them in wreaths and garlands.
  • Egyptian: The Egyptians too noted the spike and the phallic resemblance to the human anatomy but they linked the flower to fertility and the inception of children.

Cultural Significance:

  • African Culture: In many parts of Africa, where Zantedeschia is native, the plant is considered a symbol of growth and regeneration.
  • Modern Western Culture: In contemporary Western societies, the Zantedeschia is popular with weddings. However, it is also commonly considered by many to be a funeral flower, which is due to it’s connection of representing the restored innocence of the departed soul.
  • Art and Literature: The Zantedeschia has been a popular subject in art, particularly in the works of modernist painters like Georgia O’Keeffe, where it often symbolises female sexuality and sensuality.
  • Chinese Culture: While not native to China, the Calla lily has been adopted into Chinese floristry and is sometimes given as a gift to represent career growth and prosperity.

Different colour Calla lily flower meanings:

  • White Calla Lily: Symbolises purity and innocence.
  • Pink Calla Lily: Represents appreciation and admiration.
  • Purple Calla Lily: Symbolises passion and charm.

Birth & Star sign flower info:

Zodiac Sign: There seems to be no clear agreement on which star sign the Calla lily is connected to, we have discovered it being associated with: Scorpio, Cancer and Aquarius.

Other fun info:

  • The Calla Lily name is wrong on every level! It’s not a lily (part of the Liliaceae family). Nor is it a Calla, as there is a “Calla” Genus that only has the one single species in it; Calla palustris (bog arum, marsh calla, wild calla, squaw claw, and water-arum). The Swedish botanist Carolus Lunnaeus wrongly classified it when he named the plant. It was correctly reclassified as a Zantedeschia by the German Botanist Kurt Spengel
  • The name was given as a tribute to Italian botanist and physician Giovanni Zantedeschi
  • Zantedeschia aethiopica – Arum lilies are also doubly misnamed. As there is similarly an ‘Arum’ Genus
  • They were introduced to European gardeners as early as the 1600s and were common in the Americas by the 1700s
  • The Art Nouveau period hugely appreciated and used Calla lilies, it was feature in and on so many artworks and jewellery, ornaments, sculptures, vases and furniture
  • The Zantedeschia has been seen as a sexy flower throughout the ages. For Romans, the calla lily was linked with eroticism and sexuality as the phallic spike became the emblem of human genitalia to them. The Egyptians also perceived the phallic spike this way, but for them it because a symbol of fertility and inception. Sexual and psychological values were associated with Zantedeschia especially around the 1920s and 1930 when their popularity continued especially in artworks.
  • Calla lilies were a favourite subject of painter Georgia O’Keeffe, who created over 200 paintings of the flower
  • Arum / Calla lilies have been associated with the Virgin Mary throughout history. It was said that Mary sniffed a Zantedeschia to conceive Jesus
Information for florists on

Buying wholesale Zantedeschia | Calla lily

Our complete buying guide
Register now

The growers share so much information about each stem of Zantedeschia that are sold. This mandatory  info is crucial to fully appreciate and understand. It explains to the florist, every flower characteristics, the information needed to buy the exact and best products.

We’re going to share this below so you can gain a real understand in the best ways to buy Calla lilies. Ready? Let’s dive in…

Tell me more

The information and characteristics provided about the vast majority of commercial cut flowers is epic!

Product codes: Every flower has it’s very own product code. This code is specific to that flower variety so a Gerbera mini ‘Kimsey’ would have a different product code to a Gerbera mini ‘Bridal Kimsey’ just as a Spray Roses ‘Coral Bubbles’ would have a different code to Spray Roses ‘Orange Bubbles’. 

Flower specifications: Each individual product, of the same code, has a set of specific characteristics that will always be present, ensuring they are consistent.

Sort codes:
Whilst every flower of the same variety (and product code) might be the same in many ways, they can still be very different in others. 

This is where sort codes come in, it’s vital for florists to understand and fully appreciate these codes.

Sort codes include:

  • Minimum length of flower stem – generally shortened to ‘length’
  • Weight (average) in grams
  • Minimum number of flower buds – generally shortened to ‘bud count’
  • Stage of maturity – often called ‘ripeness’
  • Minimum flower diameter – often called ‘head size’
  • Minimum bud height – often called ‘min head size’

Not every flower will have all these sort codes. For example spray roses will have details of their length, bud count, and maturity. 

Group codes:
Whilst each flower and plant has it’s own product code they are classified into product groups. Each product group has a code. Categorising plants and flowers into groups with similar characteristics, is helpful on many levels; grading criteria and checks, and recording statistical information being just a couple.

As an example:
Gerbera large flowered (grp 10100601) is a different group to Gerbera large flowered spider shaped (grp 10100607). Gerbera mini (grp 10100602) is a different group to Gerbera mini spider shaped (grp 10100608). Whilst each Gerbera group have many similar characteristics, they also have important differences, hence the different product groups.

Colour codes:
To clearly communicate the colour of a product it is assigned colour codes when it is registered (it has to be registered so it can be sold). The colour is established using a colour chart issued by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Each colour is indicated by a code, the RHS colour code of which there are 969 colours (the auctions have corresponding codes to match each of these). However, as these codes are such a detailed way of giving the product it’s colour, the flower auctions also use another colour classification to provide information onto webshops.

What we do: Colour codes are provided to us along with the other data, but even the shortened list is very long. That’s why we’ve created a set of ‘Colours’ where we’ve grouped together flowers colours, this means purple flowers that span across 15 different codes can easily be found all together by using our webshop filter. 

Logistic codes:
These codes include information on the number of stems in the bunch, the amount of items per bucket, and the type of packaging etc. We present the essential information that you’ll need in different ways, here’s a good example of why packing type it’s important…

Consider the Kimsey mini Gerbera, these can be sold in:

  • bunches in a bucket of water
  • boxes or half a box 
  • diamond packs

You will want to know which way you’re buying them.

Quality Groups:
These indicate if a product is A1, A2, or B1. The only 3 quality ratings. Almost all products ever sold are A1, and this is certainly the case with us at Westflor (however, occasionally you may wish to buy B1 Porta Nova red roses for two-thirds of your red rose coffin spray for example). 

Other codes:

Company code: Which shares all the details of the grower

Country codes: These countries are identified by two letters.

Certifications: Showing MPS rating, Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, GlobalGap, etc.

Marketing concept codes: This would share information such as ‘Meilland Jardin & Parfum Rose’ or ‘Hypericum Romance Series’.

Post harvest after-treatment: Types of cut flower food used immediately after the flowers have been harvested.

Cultivation method: For example, under glass or outdoors.

Wrapping material: This could share info such as no wrapping, compostable sleeve, cardboard or plastic.

Vase life index: How many days it lasted in tests.

Transaction Characteristics: This includes things like Producer Groups, like: Decorum, Parfum Flower Company, Floral Fundamentals and 365 days of flowers, and more mundane transaction info such as a products Vat rate, weather it’s priced per stem, bunch, etc.

Webshop Product Details

Calla lily page listing example

Calla lily cut flower listing example
Calla lily cut flower listing example

Product selected example

Calla lily selected cut flower listing example

Calla lily sorting description details:

Length (cm)
Available: 30cm - 80cm
In London we stock: 50cm - 80cm. In Holland we stock: 50cm - 80cm. From Pre-order: 50cm - 80cm
Stage of maturity/ripeness
Available: 1 - 5
In London we stock: 2 - 3 & 3 - 4. In Holland we stock: 2 - 3, 3 - 4 & 4 - 5.

Other available information

Flexibility of flower stem: This is mandatory information that growers must share about the Calla lilies they sell. It’s a little known sorting code (S68) that is unique to Zantedeschia.

Shape of cut flowers: Another mandatory piece of information requested that the must provide. However, as we have a limited amount of space to share information on our webshop, coupled with the fact that we always ensure the flowers we sell are the best quality (with a single quality head in the case of Zantedeschia) there is no need for us to share this information.

Cultivation method: This grower information shares whether the flowers are given code 001, indicating that they have been grown under glass, or code 002, that they have been grown outdoors. Again, this is information that we don’t feel the need to share. The Zantedeschia we select are seldom if ever grown outside and only from our very best trusted grower partners.

Maturity: Whilst the stage of maturity or ripeness is mandatory information that must be given by the growers, as we have a limited amount of space to share information on our webshop, coupled with the fact that we always ensure the flowers we sell are exceptionally fresh, we don’t always share this is information.

Arum lily page listing example

Arum lily cut flower listing example

Product selected example

Arum lily selected cut flower listing example

Calla lily sorting description details:

Length (cm)
Available: 60cm - 100cm
In London we stock: 60cm - 100cm. In Holland we stock: 60cm - 100cm. From Pre-order: 60cm - 100cm
Stage of maturity/ripeness
Available: 1 - 5
In London we stock: 2 - 2, 2 - 3, & 3 - 4. In Holland we stock: 1 - 3, 2 - 2, 2 - 3, 2 - 4 & 4 - 5.

Maturity or Ripeness:

Zantedeschia are sorted by maturity or ripeness as shown in the example(s) below.

One represents the most closed the flower can be sold by the grower and five represents the most open it can be sold by the grower.

Zantedeschia maturity sorting examples. Westflor flower wholesale

Whilst regulations dictates flowers can be sold in stages 1 – 5 in reality flowers are often unavailable in all maturity or ripeness stages (it’s just not practical or beneficial).

More information on maturity/ripeness codes:

Flower maturity or ripeness can be shown in different ways.

One number repeated: When one number is repeated it indicates all the flowers are of that maturity. This number can be shown with or without a hyphen e.g. 3-3 or 33

Different numbers shown: When the numbers are different it indicates flowers in that bunch have a maturity range of between the lowest to the highest number. e.g. 2-3 or 23. It is very unusual that flowers are ever sold as a complete maturity mixed bunch,  but it is technically possible, this would be represented as 1 – 5 or 15.

Why it’s important to know and use this information: Knowing this information can be very helpful to florists.

For example a florist may welcome buying a more mature rose of 4 if they need to create a flower wall or large archway for a wedding, or similarly, if they are creating a coffin spray of roses for a funeral.

However, if they are looking to buy roses for stock, or general gift work, they are likely to want 2 or 3 maturity flowers.

Some roses are only ever sold from maturity 3, this includes all Meijer roses and the vast majority of Porta Nova roses – they’re naturally a large head that opens beautifully, they don’t sell it when it’s very closed (unless they’re sending it to a country that takes over 24 hours for the transport to arrive. In this instance, as they are transported in water, they leave the growers at stage 2 and arrive at stage 3!).

Cut flower Zantedeschia care guides

We’ll cover all the care information for florists and for enjoying Calla and Arum lilies at home. The expert information we share will ensure you get the very best out of your cut Zantedeschia.

Florists care and conditioning advice

Special care considerations for Zantedeschia | Calla lilies:

Besides all the usual cut flower conditioning and care good practices (which are laid out in the ‘Consumer / at home care information’ section), the points below are specific to Zantedeschia cut flower care:

  • Any part of the Zantedeschia can be damaged easily, both the flower head and the stem. Careful handling is required to avoid this.
  • Zantedeschia usually come bound together in their bunches at the bottom and part way up the stems (to provide extra support and protection during transportation). It is important to carefully remove this binding (occasionally bands, but usually tape), especially in the upper part of the stems, as prolonged constriction can cause damage.
  • Callas don’t like to be overcrowded or packed in too tightly as they can be susceptible to deterioration, so reasonable air flow is important. Most of their sleeves give reasonable air flow, but be mindful of this if storing them in plastic sleeves, and try not to leave them in sleeves that could constrict their air flow for extended periods of time.
  • If parts of the Zantedeschia are damaged, it is best to remove the damaged section as it will likely attract and create bacteria, further deterioration, and it’s likely this section will go mushy if not removed or treated. It’s also likely that if this damaged section is in direct contact with other stems/flowers in the bunch for a prolonged period of time, this ‘bad’ section can easily affect other stems.
  • Calla lilies may consume more water than you might imagine, especially initially whilst being conditioned. However, they should be kept in shallow water, whether conditioning in bucket or displaying in vases.
  • Due to their soft stems, the stem ends can become susceptible to decay below the water level and can also become slimy, causing the water to be filled with bacteria and smell bad.
  • Zantedeschia remaining looking good for few days with little or no water source. This can be a very useful feature when considering their use within designs, especially event and wedding work. To help the flowers remain hydrated it is best for the stem ends to be sealed. This can be done with floral tape, flower glue, melted wax, and we’ve even seen it done in competition work with melted chocolate!
  • Although the stems are soft, they perform fairly well in foam, although care will be required for adequate insertion. Softer floral foams are sometimes advised for this reason; however, cutting the stem ends straight so they can be inserted more easily is usually sufficient. Alternatively, making a hole in the foam before insertion can be helpful. Another option, especially in crowded floral foam, is to insert one end of a cocktail stick into the stem and the other end into the foam; this will act as a wick and keep the flower hydrated (if the foam is kept adequately moist). However, as with most flowers, they last longer in water.
  • Cut flower food is not as essential as with other flowers, but it will help the Calla lilies’ lasting ability as it will reduce bacteria build-up in the water, keeping it fresher for longer, which will avoid premature wilting of the Zantedeschia and other flowers in the same water.

Best flower food:

Whilst in stock: Chrysal professional 2
For aqua pack, vases, foam soaking prior to delivery: Chrysal pro 2 or pro 3
Sachet to send to with flowers: Universal clear | Chrysal bio based compostable or paper sachets
Specialist sachets to send out: Bulb cut flower food is also available as a specialist option and sometimes recommended as the best options. However, the mixed cut flower food suggest above will be fine.

Cut flower food:

Shop cut flower food

Stem type effect:

Stem type: Soft
Effect: Careful handling is required to avoid the stems becoming damaged

Stem tissue type: Soft
Water polluting level: High

Optimal temperature:

1 – 10°c /  34 – 50°F 

Caring for flowers at home

Step by step guide

  • Select a suitable vase for the flowers:
    • Usually the minimum vase size should be at least 1 litre
    • Where possible avoid antique crystal, metal or porous vases, or use a plastic inner container to line the vase
  • Clean your vase thoroughly, if you feel it is clean still rinse it out or brush or wipe the inside
  • Use fresh tap water and add the correct quantity of cut flower food for the amount of water you use. Mix the cut flower food into the water
  • Whilst Zantedeschia will not come with leaves, if you are placing them in a vase with other flowers ensure you remove all leaves that would go below the water level (leaving the stems as clean as possible)
  • Avoid damaging the stems
  • Cut at least 2cm off the end of the flower stems (not at a usual 45° angle) in a straight across, horizontally, due to their soft stems, ideally with a sharp clean knife or secateurs. The aim is to get a clean cut that doesn’t crush and damage the stem (which scissors can sometimes do). Dirty tools can pass bacteria to the fresh cut
  • Place the freshly cut materials directly into water – do not leave them on the side to ‘breath air’
  • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, draughts and excessive airflow, heat, ripening fruit, and smoke
  • Keep a close eye on the water:
    • Ensure all stems are still below the water level
    • Top up the water (or change it) if it falls below 1/3 or the initial volume
    • Change the water if it becomes visibly dirty; cloudy, discoloured, including sediment at the bottom of the vase, or if smells bad (micro-organisms in the water cause these issues).
    • When using professional cut flower food the water will rarely need changing before 3, 4 or more days, in most cases you can simply top the water up with more of the cut flower food solution. However, some types of flower stems, including these Zantedeschia | Calla lilies, especially when coupled with warmer weather, can result in the water needing to be changed sooner.
  • When changing the water, rinse clean the vase, add more cut flower food solution recut the flower stems
  • If you do not have (and can not get) cut flower food, change the water more frequently, ideally every other day and recut the stems each time
  • Ensure flowers are not overly crowded, this is especially important with Calla lilies
  • Remove any fading flowers promptly

Reference List:

See more Cut flowers

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