canna indica russian red - GARDEN
Learn how to plant and grow cannas—plus, get instructions for deadheading, cutting back, and overwintering. Cannas (Canna Indica) are unrelated to true lilies, even though they’re commonly called “canna lilies.” This flowering perennial plant is related to bananas and ginger! The canna lily plant is a rhizomatous perennial with tropical-like foliage and beautiful large flowers that may be red, orange, or yellow.
Understanding the Context
Depending on the variety, the canna’s foliage color varies from green to maroon, bronze, and variegated types. Canna indica, commonly called achira in Latin America, has been cultivated by Native Americans in tropical America for thousands of years, and was one of the earliest domesticated plants in the Americas. The starchy root is edible. Consistent moisture is a must for cannas.
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Key Insights
In fact, it’s possible to include some of them in or near a water feature or boggy area of the garden. These plants are characterized by their rhizomatous roots, large leaves, and uniquely structured blooms. A bold summer bulb, canna lilies produce massive blooms in colors ranging from pale pastels to vibrant oranges and reds. Their huge jungle-like leaves are equally eye-catching and come in a broad array of solid and variegated colors.