Amazing Calla Lily Similar Flower: Discover the Best Alternatives

Lula Thompson

On 12/13/2024, 9:11:41 PM

Discover flowers like calla lilies! Explore regal, trillium, & Easter lilies for a unique garden. Find your perfect match!

Table of Contents

Ever admired the sleek elegance of a calla lily? I get it; they're stunning. But what if I told you there's a whole world of flowers out there, just as captivating, that you might not know about? It turns out, the classic "calla lily" isn't even a true lily at all! It's part of a family called Zantedeschia, and that's where our adventure begins. We're going to explore some amazing plants that share a similar vibe to the calla lily, from its own relatives to some surprising look-alikes. Think of it like this: if the calla lily is your favorite song, I'm about to introduce you to some equally awesome remixes. We'll check out the Zantedeschia family itself, then branch out to the regal lily, western trillium, and the Easter lily. Each one offers a unique twist on that classic calla lily beauty. Get ready to discover your next favorite bloom and how to use these calla lily similar flower in your garden or arrangements.

Zantedeschia: The Calla Lily Family

Zantedeschia: The Calla Lily Family

Zantedeschia: The Calla Lily Family

Not Your Average Lily

Okay, so here's the thing: when we say "calla lily," we're usually talking about the Zantedeschia aethiopica. It's the classic, elegant one, often pure white, that you see in bouquets and gardens. But this isn't a true lily at all. It's actually part of the Araceae family, which also includes some pretty wild-looking plants like the jack-in-the-pulpit. The Zantedeschia genus is full of surprises, and they're all about that cool, sculptural look.

Think of it like a family of superheroes, each with their own unique power. The Zantedeschia aethiopica is like the classic hero, always reliable and stylish. But there are others, like the golden calla with its sunny yellow color, or the pink calla with its soft, romantic hue. They may come in different colors and sizes, but they all have that same distinctive, elegant shape that makes them part of the Calla family. It's like they all went to the same design school and learned how to be effortlessly chic.

Beyond the White: Colors of the Calla Family

It’s not all about the white ones. This family is all about variety. You've got the golden calla, flaunting a vibrant yellow that’ll make your garden pop. Then there's the pink calla, a softer, more romantic option, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy. These aren’t just color variations; they bring a totally different feel to your space.

Some even have speckled leaves, adding another layer of visual interest. It’s pretty cool when you realize how much variety is packed into this one plant family. So, if you’re looking for something a little different from the classic white, the Zantedeschia family has got your back. It is like a box of crayons, each color bringing its own joy.

Care and Keeping of Zantedeschias

Now, these beauties aren't super fussy, but they do have their preferences. Generally, they like well-drained soil and moderate watering. Think of them like Goldilocks – not too dry, not too wet, just right. Most of them are happy with partial shade, especially in hotter climates. If you live somewhere with harsh afternoon sun, give them a little break.

They also appreciate a little bit of food, so a balanced fertilizer during the growing season will keep them happy and blooming. If you treat them well, they'll reward you with their stunning blooms, year after year. It's like giving a little love to your plants, and they'll give you a whole lot back.

Zantedeschia Variety

Color

Sun Preference

Watering

Zantedeschia aethiopica

White

Partial Shade

Moderate

Golden Calla

Yellow

Partial Shade

Moderate

Pink Calla

Pink

Partial Shade

Moderate

Regal Lily: A TrumpetShaped Alternative to Calla Lily

Regal Lily: A TrumpetShaped Alternative to Calla Lily

Regal Lily: A TrumpetShaped Alternative to Calla Lily

Okay, so you’re loving the calla lily look, but maybe you want something a little different? Let me introduce you to the regal lily, also called the trumpet lily. These guys have got a similar elegant vibe, but with a slightly different shape. Instead of that smooth, almost rolled-up look of the calla, the regal lily has these big, open, trumpet-shaped blooms. It's like they're announcing their presence with a fanfare. They also come in a range of colors from pure white to soft pinks and even some deep purples. It is like they are the dramatic cousins of the calla lily, ready to steal the show.

These lilies aren't just pretty faces; they have a lovely fragrance too. Imagine walking through your garden and being greeted by their sweet scent. They often grow taller than calla lilies, which can add height and drama to your garden. It's like having a group of elegant dancers swaying in the breeze. They look fantastic in a garden or as a cut flower, ready to bring a touch of class to any room. Plus, they're fairly easy to care for, as long as you give them what they need, which means well-drained soil and moderate watering.

Feature

Regal Lily

Calla Lily

Bloom Shape

Trumpet-shaped

Spadix and spathe

Height

Taller

Shorter to medium

Fragrance

Fragrant

Not strongly scented

Color Range

White, pink, purple

White, yellow, pink, etc.

Western Trillium: A Unique LookAlike of Calla Lily

Western Trillium: A Unique LookAlike of Calla Lily

Western Trillium: A Unique LookAlike of Calla Lily

Alright, so we've explored the trumpet-shaped regal lily, now let's get a little more unusual with the western trillium. This one's a bit of a curveball, not in the same family as the calla or regal lily, but it shares a similar simple, elegant vibe. Imagine a plant that grows low to the ground, with three broad, fan-like leaves. From the center pops a three-petaled flower, usually white, that starts to turn pink or red as it ages. It’s like a tiny, delicate sculpture sitting on the forest floor. It’s not trying to be flashy, but it has a quiet beauty that’s hard to ignore. It’s definitely not a tall, showy flower, but there's something very special about its understated elegance. It is like a hidden gem, waiting to be found.

These little guys are woodland plants, so they're not going to do well in full sun. They prefer the cool, shady spots, with moist, well-drained soil. Think of them as the introverts of the plant world, preferring a quiet corner in your garden. They're also not huge fans of being moved around, so pick a spot they’ll like and let them settle in. They’re a bit like that friend who prefers a cozy night in to a wild party. They're not as common in gardens as the other flowers we've talked about, but that's part of their charm. If you’re looking for something different that will add a touch of woodland whimsy, the western trillium is a great choice. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in unexpected places, not just in the big and bold.

Feature

Western Trillium

Calla Lily

Growth Habit

Low-growing

Taller

Leaf Shape

Broad, fan-like

Long, pointed

Flower Petals

Three

One (spathe)

Sun Preference

Shade

Partial Shade

Easter Lily: A Close Resemblance to Calla Lily

Easter Lily: A Close Resemblance to Calla Lily

Easter Lily: A Close Resemblance to Calla Lily

Okay, so we've seen some pretty cool alternatives, but if you’re really after that classic calla lily vibe, you absolutely have to check out the Easter lily. This one is a bit of a chameleon, it looks incredibly similar to the calla at first glance. They both boast those elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers, but the Easter lily's petals are a bit thicker and more substantial. And while the calla lily has that smooth, almost rolled-up look, the Easter lily has more of an open, star-like shape when fully bloomed. It's like they are cousins, with a shared family resemblance, but their own unique personalities. The Easter lily is a classic for a reason, it brings a touch of sophistication wherever it goes.

Feature

Easter Lily

Calla Lily

Flower Shape

Trumpet-shaped, open

Spadix and spathe

Petal Texture

Thick, substantial

Smooth, almost rolled

Leaf Shape

Thin, pointed

Broad, often arrow-shaped

Light Needs

Bright light

Partial shade