Louisiana Canna Canna glauca

Canna Glauca is a species of the Canna genus, a family of large tropical plants native to tropical southern America that produce gladiolus-like flower spikes in summer. The name comes from the Greek word kanna meaning "reed like".  The flowers of Canna Glauca can be red, salmon pink, yellow, or burnt orange and sit atop tall erect stems that are sheathed in large paddle-shaped leaves. The foliage is also very colorful and allows the plant to retain ornamental interest when not in flower. Because the leaves are so large, you should avoid placing the plant where it would be subject to high winds.  It can be propagated by division, root cutting or seed.  The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds.

Canna Glauca, like the Canna genus, is a herbaceous perennial that grows best in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade (it cannot grow in full shade). They grow 4-6’ tall with narrow, blue-green leaves (up to 18” long) and small pale-yellow flowers.  In warmer zones, the rhizomes may be left in the soil to over winter.  After the first frost, cut the foliage down to the ground and cover with available mulch.  In colder zones, dig up the rhizomes and bring inside and store them in peat or vermiculite in a cool dry space with temperatures between 45 - 50 degrees.  The rhizomes should be planted after the last spring frost. It is best to plant the rhizomes at least 5 inches deep and 12 inches apart.  Spent flowers should be removed to encourage continued flowering through the summer months.  Plants in containers can be left in their containers once brought inside.

As one of its common names implies, Water canna can be grown in water.  These aquatic cannas can be grown in shallow still or slow-moving water, up to 6 inches during the summer.  If growing them in water, they should be introduced to water gradually.  

Their striking and brightly colored flowers make them an excellent choice for a border grouping, and their tropical feel works well in pool-side landscaping.  If water bound, they can be put in a shallow pond, creek bed or wetlands.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Keep in mind that rhizomes may rot in poorly drained wet soils and the plants are susceptible to damage from aster yellows. Japanese beetles, leaf-rolling caterpillars, slugs and snails that are known to chew on the foliage. 

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course formerly offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Canna.