14 Jan Canna lily, Indian shot
Canna indica, Canna x generalis
A very widely planted species that prefers wet
boggy sites. Commonly used in septic tank
absorption trenches. Garden refuse dumping and
deliberate planting in reserves and wetland areas
is the main problem.
Family: Cannaceae
Origin: Tropical
and South
America
Habit: Erect, herbaceous perennial to 2m high with No true stems.
Stems are a collection of tightly furled leaf bases.
Leaves: Dark green to multi coloured and striped, large (60 x 25cm),
arranged alternately on stems.
Flowers: Tubular flowers (yellows oranges, reds and pinks) formed in
asymmetrical clusters. Spring-Autumn.
Fruit: Black, globular seeds (5-7mm long) borne in capsule, and
spread by birds.
Roots: Extensive, fleshy rhizome formed underground.
Dispersal: Seed and rhizomes spread by water, humans, contaminated
soil (earthmoving equipment, car tyres etc) and garden
refuse dumping.
Control: Hand pull/dig, bagging all plant parts and removing from site.
Foliar spray, Cut and Paint.
