Canna Lily

About the Canna Lily

Not actually a lily - they are in their own family. They produce some of the largest leaves of any garden plant, up to 60 cm long. Their rhizomes are edible and used as a starch source in some cultures. They attract hummingbirds. Over 20 species with hundreds of hybrids. They grow rapidly in warm weather. They are excellent for tropical-style gardens. They can be grown in water gardens. The seeds are extremely hard and were used as bullets in early firearms (hence canna balls). They are frost-tender and must be lifted in cold climates.