The Blom

It grows in a wide range of colours, the most popular being white and used at both funerals and weddings alike. Endemic to South Africa the Calla lily enjoys warm temperatures and grows well in swampy moist areas. When planting though, Cala lilies should be planted loose but in well-drained soil and prefer to be in the sun or partial shade When I create an arrangement using artificial calla lilies I actually prefer to have them as a stand-alone flower but perhaps I may add a touch of leatherleaf or eucalyptus. I did get a request for an artificial black Cala lily arrangement and it created a very mysterious look that worked really well.

The name is derived from the buds that grow at the end of tall, straight stalks that closely resemble a flaming torch. Torch ginger thrives in full to partial shade and, like most Etlingera, prefers disturbed areas, however, it can grow up to two meters in length. I have used artificial ginger torch in many tropical arrangements for both it’s height and magnificent colour.