Canna

Canna is a genus of 10 species of flowering plants. The genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from the southern United States to northern Argentina. Canna is the only genus in the family Cannaceae. The plants have large, attractive foliage and horticulturists have turned it into a large-flowered and bright garden plant.

Description

Cannas are large perennial herbs with a rhizomatous rootstock. The leaves are typically large, banana-like, and can be green or bronze. The flowers are asymmetrical and come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous seeds.

Taxonomy

The genus Canna is the only member of the family Cannaceae. The closest relatives to Cannaceae are the Marantaceae, Zingiberaceae, and Costaceae families.

Distribution and Habitat

Cannas are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. They thrive in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, riverbanks, and forest edges. They are also widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.

Cultivation

Cannas are popular garden plants due to their striking foliage and flowers. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be propagated by division of the rhizomes or by seed. In colder climates, the rhizomes can be dug up and stored over winter.

Uses

Cannas have various uses, including ornamental, agricultural, and culinary. The rhizomes of some species are edible and are used as a food source in some cultures. The plants are also used in wastewater treatment and as a source of biofuel.

Species

Some of the notable species in the genus Canna include:

• Canna indica
• Canna glauca
• Canna iridiflora
• Canna flaccida

Related Pages

• Cannaceae
• Marantaceae
• Zingiberaceae
• Costaceae
• Perennial plant
• Rhizome
• Ornamental plant