What is canna indica?

Canna indica, also known as Indian shot or simply canna, is a plant species native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including South America, Central America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Cannaceae family and is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height.

Canna indica is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The leaves are large and paddle-shaped, typically green or purple in color, and can be variegated with yellow or cream hues. The flowers grow on tall stalks and come in a range of colors, including red, pink, orange, and yellow. The flowers are often followed by seed pods that resemble small black balls, earning the plant its common name of Indian shot.

Canna indica is a highly adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions, from full sunlight to partial shade and in a range of soil types. It is also hardy and can withstand periods of drought or flooding. The plant is not only valued for its visual appeal but also for its medicinal properties. Extracts from the rhizomes have been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and fever.

Overall, canna indica is a versatile and striking plant that has found its way into gardens and landscapes spanning the globe.