Canna indica aka Canna Lily

Taxonomy

Canna indica, also known as Indian shot, African arrowroot, edible canna, purple arrowroot, and Sierra Leone arrowroot, is a flowering plant of the Cannaceae family that is native to South America, Central America, the West Indies, Mexico, and many other parts of the world. This plant has been cultivated by indigenous peoples of the Americas for thousands of years and is also a popular houseplant grown for its bright, graceful flowers. The flowers range from yellow or light orange to red, and some plants may also have white flowers. The fruits of this plant are three-celled loculicidal capsules, which range from an oval to cylindrical shape, and ripen within 30-40 days. This plant prefers direct sunlight and regular watering - less than 1 foot from a window - to thrive.

Common names

Canna Lily, Indian Shot

How to care for Canna Lily

Difficulty

Canna Lily requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Canna Lily should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Canna Lily loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Canna Lily requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Canna Lily will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Canna Lily does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Growth-pattern

The Canna Lily is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.

Region of origin

Canna Lily’s native range is Southern United States to South America.


More info:
Wikipedia