The Whispering Callas by the Water

Ever since I was a child, Calla aethiopica has graced my garden in Edirne, Turkey—a piece of Africa quietly thriving in a European climate. I remember how they lingered by the edges of the flowerbeds, surviving, but rarely blooming. Their resilience was admirable, but their blossoms seemed to hold back, as if waiting for the right moment.

A few years ago, I decided to reshape the heart of my garden. I built a small stream, winding through the landscape like a silver ribbon, leading into a tranquil pond. Something magical happened—Callas, with their elegant white spathes, suddenly flourished. They leaned toward the water’s edge, basking in the damp earth and the soft reflections of the sun. It was as if they had finally found their home, even so far from their native habitat.

Now, they bloom abundantly each season, transforming the garden into a canvas of delicate whites and greens. It’s a reminder that while we may be far from where we began, the right environment can help us—and our plants—thrive.