calla lily
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A flowering plant: A plant (Zantedeschia aethiopica) native to southern Africa, widely cultivated for its distinctive and elegant flower structure. The flower consists of a large, white, funnel-shaped bract (spathe) that surrounds a central yellow spike (spadix).
Examples of Usage
- The bride's bouquet featured elegant calla lilies.
- Calla lilies are popular in floral arrangements for their simple, sculptural form.
- The pond was bordered by lush green leaves and white calla lilies.
Advanced Usage
- Symbolic Use: The calla lily is often associated with purity, holiness, and rebirth, making it a common choice for weddings and Easter celebrations.
- In Art: The flower has been famously depicted in the paintings of Georgia O'Keeffe, who highlighted its sensuous curves and form.
Variants and Related Words
- Calla (n): A common shortened name for the calla lily.
- She planted some pink callas in the garden.
- Arum lily (n): Another common name for the same plant.
- Zantedeschia (n): The botanical genus name for the calla lily.
Synonyms
- Arum lily
- Trumpet lily (less common)
Notes on Meaning
- Not a True Lily: Despite its common name, the calla lily is not a member of the true lily family (Liliaceae). It belongs to the arum family (Araceae). This is a key point of distinction in botany and horticulture.
Noun
- South African plant widely cultivated for its showy pure white spathe and yellow spadix