Canna indica
This species, often called Indian shot, is a dependable canna for bold foliage and summer flowers. It performs best in full sun, summer heat, and rich, evenly moist soil. Flowers are typically smaller and simpler than many garden hybrids. In much of North America it is grown as a tender perennial with rhizomes lifted for winter. It suits beds, borders, and large containers and is widely used for a tropical effect.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species
- Height × spread: 3 to 6 ft (0.9 to 1.8 m) × 1.5 to 3 ft (0.5 to 0.9 m)
- Bloom window: summer to frost (varies by climate)
- Color & flower form: red to yellow-orange; narrow, open flowers on spikes
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 8 to 11; grown as annual in colder regions
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Simpler, narrower flowers compared with many garden hybrids.
- Foliage is usually green rather than variegated.
- Produces very hard black seeds in warty capsules.
Strengths
- Handles heat and sun.
- Long bloom with regular deadheading.
- Attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun; light shade tolerated.
- Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained; pH slightly acid to neutral.
- Water: keep evenly moist in heat; avoid waterlogging.
- Feed: balanced fertilizer in late spring and mid-summer if soils are lean.
- Overwinter: in zones 7 or colder, lift rhizomes after frost and store at 40 to 50°F in a dry medium.
Watch‑outs
- Leafrollers can shred foliage; monitor and manage.
- Viruses occur in some stock; buy clean rhizomes.
- Rhizomes rot in poorly drained soil.
Best uses (tags)
borders, massing, containers, pollinators
Provenance note
Native to tropical and subtropical America; widely naturalized and cultivated.
References
- NC State Extension: Canna indica
- Kew POWO: Canna indica
- USDA PLANTS: Canna indica
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Canna (group)
- ASPCA: Canna Lily
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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