calla
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A type of flowering plant: A plant of the genus Zantedeschia, widely cultivated for its distinctive and showy flowers. The flower consists of a large, often white, petal-like sheath (spathe) surrounding a central yellow spike (spadix). 2. A specific common name: Often used specifically to refer to the common white calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica), though the genus includes other colored varieties.
Usage Examples
- The elegant white calla is a popular choice for wedding bouquets.
- She planted calla lilies along the edge of the pond in her garden.
- The florist arranged a dozen pink calla stems in a tall vase.
Advanced Usage
- Botanical Context: In botanical terminology, the showy part of the calla is not a true petal but a modified leaf called a spathe. The true flowers are tiny and located on the central spadix.
- Cultural Symbolism: The calla lily is often associated with purity, holiness, and rebirth, which contributes to its frequent use in religious and wedding ceremonies.
Variants and Related Words
- Calla Lily: The most common full name for the plant.
- Arum Lily: Another common name, particularly for the white species (), though it is botanically distinct from true plants in the genus.
- Zantedeschia: The scientific genus name for the calla.
Synonyms
- Arum lily
- Trumpet lily
Notes on Different Meanings
- The word calla refers specifically to plants in the genus . It should not be confused with true lilies, which belong to the genus . The common name "calla lily" is thus a misnomer from a botanical perspective.
Noun
- water arum
- South African plant widely cultivated for its showy pure white spathe and yellow spadix