Indian Shot, Canna Lily

canna indica

Also known as: ["Canna generalis","Canna glauca","Canna x generalis"]

Family: Cannaceae Genus: Canna Category: Flowers

Overview

A tropical perennial plant with large, paddle-shaped leaves and vibrant, showy flowers, native to tropical regions of the Americas.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Zingiberales
Family: Cannaceae
Genus: Canna
Botanical Name: Canna indica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden beds or large containers in warm, sheltered areas
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove spent flowers and yellow leaves; can cut back hard if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust based on intensity.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; place in filtered light indoors if needed.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); mushy stems (root rot).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

Easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; rotate pot for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer.

Watering

every 3–5 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-draining loam with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; intolerant of frost.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain humidity in dry heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid contact with roots.

Propagation

Methods

Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings (less common).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Separate rhizomes with healthy buds.
  2. Plant 2–3 inches deep.
  3. Water thoroughly.
  4. Place in warm spot.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when rhizomes are actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be planted directly in soil.

Hormone

Not necessary for rhizome division; rooting hormone can help for stem cuttings.

Timeline

Rhizomes establish quickly in 2–4 weeks; flowering may take a few months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, gloves, pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Ensure each division has at least one eye; plant at the same depth as the parent; keep moist until established.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems at the base; remove dead leaves; thin overcrowded clumps.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut at an angle; remove dead growth; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; replant in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; divide rhizomes if overcrowded.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains freely from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing runoff and leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf yellowing or browning in cold; wilting or stunted growth in heat; bud drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Stops growth; may cause root damage; leaves turn yellow or brown; can lead to death in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure soil is not waterlogged.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Canna indica can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall vigor.

Wilting in Canna indica may result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Canna indica are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Canna indica due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may suffer mild irritation from calcium oxalate crystals in the rhizomes and leaves. The toxicity is low, but ingestion can lead to mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting drooling oral pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
rhizomes leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals present in the rhizomes and leaves. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
rhizomes leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant and seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Canna indica contains small amounts of calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The rhizomes and leaves are the primary toxic parts, though the toxicity is generally low.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mouth irritation difficulty swallowing mild gastrointestinal upset
🌿 Toxic Parts:
rhizomes leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Wash hands after handling and avoid ingesting any parts of the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Canna indica toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Canna indica?

A: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging.

Q: Does Canna indica attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its vibrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Cannaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 3–5 days during active
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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