Canna (plant)

Genus of flowering plants

Canna (plant)

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.

Description

Cannas are large, tropical and subtropical perennial herbs with a rhizomatous rootstock. The leaves are large, alternate, and simple, with a long petiole and a sheathing base. The flowers are asymmetrical and come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink.

Canna (plant)

Taxonomy

The genus Canna is the only member of the family Cannaceae. It is closely related to the Zingiberales, which includes the banana and ginger families. The genus was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753.

Distribution and habitat

Cannas are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. They are found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, riverbanks, and open fields. Cannas have been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world.

Cultivation

Cannas are popular ornamental plants, grown for their large, colorful flowers and attractive foliage. They are often used in gardens and as potted plants. Cannas prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are propagated by division of the rhizomes.

Canna (plant)

Uses

In addition to their ornamental value, cannas have been used for food and medicine. The rhizomes are edible and have been used as a source of starch. The leaves and flowers have been used in traditional medicine for their purported healing properties.

Species

There are approximately 10 species of Canna, including:

• Canna indica
• Canna glauca
• Canna iridiflora

Related pages

• Zingiberales
• Banana
• Ginger

Canna (plant)

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  Canna (plant)