Contents
Description
Canna Cleopatra is a tropical plant that’s known for its stunning flowers and colorful foliage. It’s a hybrid of two different canna species, Canna iridiflora and Canna patens, and was first developed in the United States in the early 2000s. The plant gets its name from its regal appearance, with large, vibrant flowers that resemble the headdress of Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Cannaceae |
| Genus | Canna |
Appearance
Canna Cleopatra grows up to 5-6 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, with large green leaves that are pleated and slightly ruffled at the edges. The flowers are the main attraction, with bright orange and red petals that have a velvety texture. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stalks and can measure up to 5 inches in diameter. The plant also produces seed pods that can be collected and planted to grow new plants.
Care Guide
Canna Cleopatra is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Canna Cleopatra:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Canna Cleopatra prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Canna Cleopatra grows best in hardiness zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like any plant, Canna Cleopatra can be vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and curling leaves.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and can be treated with a copper-based fungicide.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Canna Cleopatra is native to tropical regions of South America, but it can be grown in a variety of climates. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, but it can also tolerate cooler temperatures as long as it’s protected from frost. The plant is often grown as an ornamental in gardens and can also be grown in containers indoors.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Canna Cleopatra?
A: Fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What kind of soil does Canna Cleopatra prefer?
A: Canna Cleopatra prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.Q: Can Canna Cleopatra be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Canna Cleopatra can be grown in containers indoors as long as it gets enough sunlight.Q: What hardiness zones does Canna Cleopatra grow best in?
A: Canna Cleopatra grows best in hardiness zones 7-11.
Related Plants
- Canna Lily
- Canna Indica
- Canna Warscewiczii
- Canna Phasion
References
- “Canna Lily Plant Profile.” The Spruce, 14 Oct. 2019, www.thespruce.com/growing-canna-lilies-1402687.
- “Canna Plant.” Britannica, 4 Mar. 2021, www.britannica.com/plant/Canna-plant.
- “Canna ‘Cleopatra’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=272834.
