Calla lily, also known as Guanyin lotus and Cigu flower, is a very beautiful ornamental plant. Its name is derived from its distinctive horseshoe-shaped leaves, which are considered a symbol of elegance and nobility.
Calla lily is native to South Africa but is widely cultivated all over the world. It usually grows indoors or outdoors in semi-shady places and prefers warm, moist environments.
Morphological characteristics
The leaves of calla lilies are heart-shaped or horseshoe-shaped, with smooth leaf surfaces and dark green leaf colors. The flowers have a unique shape, with a variety of colors such as white, pink, and purple, and the petals are thick and smooth, with yellow or white in the center. The overall form is elegant and beautiful.
Growth habits
Calla lilies need plenty of sunlight, but avoid strong direct sunlight. They also prefer a moist environment, but must not allow their roots to be waterlogged. The suitable temperature for growth is 15-25, and it can safely overwinter in an environment above 10. During growth, calla lilies need well-drained soil to ensure that the roots are not overly pressed by water.
Methods of reproduction
Calla lilies can be propagated in two ways: seed propagation and ramification. Seed propagation requires a period of low temperature treatment to promote seed germination. Dividing the old plants into several parts and planting them separately in spring and autumn.
Uses:
Calla lily is an excellent ornamental plant and is often used for interior decoration and garden landscaping. Their flowers are uniquely shaped and brightly coloured, adding elegance and tranquility to an interior. At the same time, calla lily is also a flower that symbolizes purity and elegance, and is often used as a gift for important people.
Conservation and pest control
The maintenance of calla lilies requires the following attention: maintaining the right temperature and light, controlling the amount of watering and fertiliser, and pruning and weeding regularly.
During the growth process, calla lily may be attacked by some pests and diseases, such as leaf spot, aphids, etc. For these pests and diseases, they should be detected early and corresponding measures should be taken**. It can be controlled using methods such as biological control and chemical control.
Breed classification
There are many varieties of calla lily, such as green-leaved calla, yellow-leaved calla, white-leaved calla lily, etc. The difference between them is mainly in the color of the leaves and the color of the flowers.
Among them, the green-leaved calla lily is the most common one, with dark green leaves and flowers in a variety of colors such as white, pink, and purple. Whereas, the leaves of the yellow-leaved calla lily are light green and the flowers are yellow or orange. The leaves of the white-leaved calla lily are milky white, and the flowers are mostly white or pale pink.