Canna lily
Also known as
Indian shot, Achira, Edible canna, Queensland arrowroot, Banderilla
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Canna indica, commonly called Indian shot or canna lily, is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial valued for bold, tropical foliage and long-season blooms. Clumps of upright, cane-like stems carry large, paddle-shaped leaves in green or bronze, with spikes of red to orange (sometimes yellow) flowers from late spring to frost. Native to the tropical Americas, it thrives in heat and moisture and tolerates periodically waterlogged soils, making it useful along pond margins and in rain gardens. Plants typically reach 3–6 feet tall, depending on cultivar and culture. The hard, glossy black seeds inspired the name “Indian shot,” historically used as beads and in percussion instruments. Beyond ornament, the starchy rhizomes are edible (known as achira) and the species is used in constructed wetlands for nutrient uptake. In temperate climates, rhizomes are lifted and stored frost-free for winter. Generally robust and low-maintenance, Canna indica may suffer from leaf rollers, Japanese beetles, and foliar diseases, and is susceptible to certain canna viruses; start with clean stock and practice good sanitation.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Canna lily
Water
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth. Water deeply to provide about 1-1.5 inches (25–38 mm) per week, more in extreme heat or sandy soils. Cannas tolerate wet conditions and even shallow standing water, but do not let container plantings sit in stagnant saucers unless grown aquatically. Water at the base in the morning to reduce foliar disease. Mulch to slow evaporation. Reduce irrigation in late fall as plants enter dormancy; for stored rhizomes, keep barely dry, just preventing shriveling.
Light
Provide full sun for best flowering—at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily. In hot, arid climates, light afternoon shade can reduce leaf scorch and water stress without sacrificing bloom. Plants tolerate bright partial shade, but expect fewer, smaller flowers and taller, looser growth. Indoors is not ideal long-term; if overwintered in pots, place in the brightest possible location or allow full dormancy. Avoid deep shade, which weakens stems and invites pests.
Nutrients
Cannas are heavy feeders. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure at planting, then apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at label rates in spring. Side-dress with compost or a low-salt granular feed midseason. In containers, use a half-strength balanced liquid every 2–3 weeks and flush the pot monthly to prevent salt buildup. Emphasize phosphorus and potassium for bloom and sturdy stems; avoid excessive nitrogen, which produces lush foliage but fewer flowers. Stop fertilizing 4–6 weeks before frost to help rhizomes mature.
Temperature
Canna indica loves heat. Ideal daytime temperatures are 75–95°F (24–35°C) with nights above 60°F (16°C). Growth slows below 55°F (13°C) and plants are damaged by frost; kill occurs near 28-30°F (−2 to −1°C). Plant outdoors after soil warms above 60°F (16°C). Hardy in USDA Zones 8–11 with mulching; in colder zones, treat as annual or lift rhizomes before hard freezes. Indoors for storage, keep 45–55°F (7–13°C) in darkness with minimal moisture.
