calla lily black and white

The Dramatic Beauty of Black and White Calla Lilies
Calla lilies are treasured for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms, available in a spectrum of captivating colors. But the striking black and white varieties possess a special magnetism. Their bold contrast creates a distinctive flair in floral arrangements. Let’s take an in-depth look at growing and enjoying these eye-catching bicolor calla lilies.

An Overview of Black & White Callas

While calla lilies naturally occur in white, yellow, pink or red hues, black callas have been cultivated by saturating the color until it becomes a deep, dark purple-black. They are not truly black, but as close as can be attained through hybridization.

Bicolor black and white callas exhibit bold black or deep burgundy centers with crisp white outer petals. The dark inner throats create eye-catching contrast against the pure white backgrounds.

These bicolors come in a few different forms

• Double flowers – Two layers of petals, with white outer and black inner.

• Splash petals – Dark splotches and streaks on mostly white petals.

• Throat spotting – Solid white petals with a black or purple throat.

In floral design, black and white callas incorporate dramatic flair. The colors evoke elegance and sophistication for weddings and formal occasions. They also complement other blooms in mixed bouquets beautifully.

Growing Black & White Calla Lilies

Calla lilies grow from rhizome bulbs For optimal results

• Planting – Set bulbs 2-4 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart in spring after the last frost

• Soil – They require consistently moist but well-draining soil. Enrich with compost.

• Sun – Grow in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sun is ideal.

• Water – Keep soil moist, watering when the top few inches become dry. Avoid soggy conditions.

• Fertilizer – Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.

• Winter care – In cold zones, dig up bulbs and store dormant over winter indoors.

With proper care, calla lily bulbs can remain productive in the garden for many years. Dividing overcrowded clumps every 2-3 years also sustains vigor.

Popular Black & White Calla Lily Varieties

Many stunning bicolor varieties exist to match different preferences:

• Black Star – Deep burgundy blooms with white spots on foliage. Grows 15-24 inches tall.

• Swartzii – Large white flowers with bold black centers. Around 2 feet high.

• Iron Cross – A white calla with distinctive black markings. Compact at 1 foot tall.

• Black Knight – Near-black blooms with creamy white edges. 18 inches in height.

• White Knight – Bright white petals with dark purplish-black throats. Reaches 2 feet tall.

• Schwarzwalder – Dramatic black-tipped white petals. Matures at 18-24 inches.

• Black Forest – Dark blackish-red blooms with white tips. About 2 feet in height.

For small spaces, dwarf hybrids like ‘Iron Cross’ and ‘Black Knight’ are perfect choices. Larger varieties better complement backgrounds or containers.

Designing with Black & White Callas

In arrangements, dark calla lily blooms create bold focal points. Here are some tips for using them dramatically:

• Contrast them with soft pastel blooms like roses, tulips or lilacs.

• Mix with white flowers for minimalist modern bouquets with graphic appeal.

• Pair black callas with orange, red or purple hues for vibrant color combinations.

• Use the tall spires to add height and structure to centerpieces.

• Place single stems in simple cylindrical vases for contemporary elegance.

• Cut blooms hold well for up to 2 weeks, prolonging their use.

With their eye-catching bicolor blooms, black and white calla lilies are perfect for incorporating artsy depth and sophistication into floral designs.

Common Questions About Black & White Callas

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about growing and using these two-toned beauties:

Are black calla lilies real?

There are no truly black calla lilies in nature. However, through selective breeding, varieties have been developed with such dark purple-black hues that they appear black. Often sold as “black callas”, they are technically just extremely dark burgundy-purple callas.

How do you care for black and white calla lilies?

Care is similar to other calla lily varieties – plant the bulbs in spring after danger of frost, provide rich well-draining soil, allow plenty of sun, water regularly to keep moist but not soaked, and fertilize every few weeks during growth. Be sure to dig bulbs in cold zones.

What causes black spots on calla lily flowers?

Black spots are usually caused by a fungal disease called anthracnose. Provide good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, properly space plants, and use fungicides if needed to treat anthracnose infections. Removing affected leaves and flowers helps reduce spread.

How long do black calla lily blooms last?

With proper post-harvest care, cut black calla lily blooms generally last around 7-14 days in floral arrangements. Remove foliage, cut stems on an angle, and place in clean water. Keep in a cool spot out of direct sun. Recut stem ends occasionally to prolong vase life.

What flowers complement black calla lilies?

Black callas pair beautifully with soft pastels like blush pink peonies, pale blue hydrangeas, lavender roses, or white tulips and lilies. Bold oranges, reds, purples and yellows also make vibrant companion blooms. Contrasting flower shapes, sizes and textures help highlight the callas.

The Mystique of Black & White Callas

With their exotic bicolor blooms, black and white calla lilies add striking drama to gardens and floral designs. Their bold contrasts evoke an air of elegance and sophistication. By understanding their growing needs and proper use in arrangements, you can fully enjoy these eye-catching beauties. Let their mystical dark and light blossoms infuse your displays with artistic flair.