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Description
Canna Red, also known as Canna Lily or Indian Shot, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Cannaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, but it is also widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental plant for its striking foliage and showy flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Cannaceae |
| Genus | Canna |
Appearance
Canna Red can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has large, paddle-shaped leaves that are typically green or bronze in color, but some cultivars have variegated or striped leaves. The flowers are borne on tall stalks and are usually red, although they can also be yellow, orange, or pink. The flowers have three petals and three sepals, and they are arranged in a cluster called an inflorescence.
Care Guide
Canna Red is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Canna Red likes to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Canna Red is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Canna Red prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Canna Red likes full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Canna Red is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11. In colder zones, it can be grown as an annual or lifted and stored indoors for the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canna Red is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf rollers: These caterpillars can roll up the leaves and feed on them. They can be hand-picked or controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Canna rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by removing and destroying infected leaves.
Habitat
Canna Red is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It grows in wetlands, marshes, and along riverbanks. It is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Canna Red?
A: You should fertilize your Canna Red every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Canna Red in a container?
A: Yes, Canna Red can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How do I overwinter my Canna Red in a cold climate?
A: You can either lift the bulbs and store them indoors in a cool, dry place, or you can cover the plant with a thick layer of mulch to protect it from frost.
Q: Can I propagate Canna Red by division?
A: Yes, Canna Red can be propagated by division in the spring. Simply dig up the plant and separate the bulbs into smaller sections, making sure each section has a bud or two.
Related Plants
- Canna Yellow
- Canna Orange
- Canna Pink
- Canna Crimson
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Canna x generalis
- RHS: Canna
- Gardening Know How: Canna Lily Care – Tips For Growing Cannas
