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CALLA LILIES

Zantedeschia aethiopica, Zantedeschia elliotiana, Zantedeschia rehmannii

A thick, waxy spathe (the petal) wraps around a shorter spadix in this elegant "less is more" flower. Large white Callas are well known, but smaller, colored Callas are becoming more familiar. Either can provide the focal point for a spectacular arrangement or bouquet. Vase life for both ranges between 5 to 7 days.

Available: Year round from Central and South America.

Pack: Single stem for large white Callas. Five stem bunches for colored Callas.

Care & Handling:

1. Remove flowers from box and check for damaged blooms. If necessary, remove the plastic sleeve from bloom. Leave paper collar, if used, around the stems until flowers are conditioned.
2. Cut 1" from stem and place in preservative solution (Callas require the sugar in commercial floral preservative). To minimize curling of stem ends, use water at room temperature.
3. Once flowers have taken water (2 to 3 hours) the paper collar should be removed.
4. Re-cut stems after a few days, as some curling will occur naturally. Replenish preservative solution as Callas are "heavy drinkers".
5. Display and store Callas in cooler at 33-35°F to maximize shelf life.

1. Callas are very fashionable. One to three stems of white Callas in a vase make a strong statement. A clear vase with clear marbles is especially elegant.
2. Colored Callas are appealing in bunches or in a mixed, monochromatic bouquet with other specialty flowers.
3. Mix with other flowers to add value to an arrangement or bouquet.
4. Excellent for design work requiring size like weddings, funerals, churches or display pieces.

1. Display in cooler with roses or other focal flowers.
2. Display one or two small stems (in water tubes) in a dish garden.