Canna

Description

Canna, also known as Canna lily, is a genus of flowering plants native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It belongs to the family Cannaceae and has over 10 species. Canna is prized for its large, showy flowers that come in an array of colors such as red, orange, yellow, and pink. The flowers are often used for ornamental purposes and can even be used in floral arrangements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Canna plants can grow up to 6 feet tall and have large, broad leaves that come in various shades of green and sometimes purple. The flowers are borne on tall stalks above the foliage and can be as big as 6 inches in diameter. Canna flowers have three petals and three sepals that are often mistaken for petals. The petals and sepals are fused together to form a tube-like structure that opens up to reveal the stamen and stigma.

Care Guide

Canna plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in both containers and in the ground. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Canna plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly. However, they don’t like to be waterlogged, so make sure the soil drains well.
• Fertilization: Canna plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Canna plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefer slightly acidic soil.
• Sunlight: Canna plants require full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, they will benefit from some afternoon shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Canna plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Canna plants are relatively pest and disease resistant but can be affected by the following:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and stippled. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Make sure the soil drains well and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Canna plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. They prefer moist soil and warm temperatures but can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Canna plants be grown indoors?
• A: Yes, Canna plants can be grown indoors in a container as long as they receive adequate sunlight and water.
• Q: Can Canna plants be propagated from cuttings?
• A: Yes, Canna plants can be propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing the rhizomes.
• Q: Do Canna plants attract pollinators?
• A: Yes, Canna flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Q: Can Canna plants tolerate frost?
• A: No, Canna plants are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.

Related Plants

• Banana
• Ginger
• Heliconia
• Bird of paradise
• Caladium

References

• “Canna Plant Care.” Gardening Know How, gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/canna-lily-care.htm.
• “Canna Lily.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, almanac.com/plant/canna-lily.
• “Canna.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a320.