| |
Canna
indica, the Indian Shot, is a magnificent exotic flower
that is found in South America, the Caribbean, Africa and
tropical Asia. This tropical beauty can reach 2.5 meters
high.
The plant blooms in July and the inflorescence persist
until November. It is made up of a group of huge red
flowers, each blending tints of orange, yellow and even
purple. These flowers appear at the top of a long and
rigid stem, greenish-purple. The foliage is very similar
to the one of the banana tree. The leaves usually measure
less than one meter and have different tints from green
to purple. It will take several years before the plant
produces flowers.
Hardiness zones 8-11 (-10°C/15°F, 4°C/40°F) in winter.
The foliage does not resist to frost. The plant can still
survive if it loses its leaves, they will grow back in
spring. A healthy Canna can support a temperature as cold
as -12°C. The ideal climate for culture is hot and dry.
Canna indica adapts easily to a tempered climate if
planted in direct soil. Placed outside, it supports well
a full-sun, but mid-shade is better if cultivated in a
glasshouse or a veranda. This plant can survive long
periods of dryness, but a more regular watering will make
the foliage more stunning.
|
|