Indian Shot
Canna indica
NEMBA category
English: Indian Shot, Garden Canna, Wild Canna
Afrikaans: Tuinkanna, Indiese Kanna
Zulu: udumbedumbe
Canna indica is an invasive plant that aggressively colonises new territories with its distinctive leafy shoots and striking green or purple-bronze leaves. Its narrow red, orange or yellow flowers are followed by green, spiny fruits that facilitate rapid seed dispersal.
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Origins: Tropical America
Overall Appearance:
Canna indica is a robust, perennial herb with large, showy flowers. It can grow up to 2.5 meters tall.
Leaves:
Leaves are large, oval-shaped, and often have a bronze or purplish tinge. They can grow up to 60 cm long and 20 cm wide.
Flowers:
Flowers are showy and typically red, orange, or yellow. They are borne in clusters at the top of the stems.
Flowering Season:
Flowering occurs throughout the year, with peak flowering periods varying depending on the region.
Fruits:
Green, spiny capsules that turn black when mature.
Seeds:
Hard, black seeds that are often used for making jewelry.
Soil Type:
Prefers moist, fertile soils but can tolerate a range of conditions.
Aspect:
Prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Edibility:
The rhizomes (underground stems) are edible and can be cooked and eaten.
Uses:
Primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for its showy flowers.
The rhizomes are a source of starch and can be used for food.
The seeds are sometimes used to make jewelry.
Problem Provinces:
Widespread throughout South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga.
Note:
Canna indica is considered an invasive species in South Africa. It can form dense stands that displace native vegetation and alter the structure of ecosystems. Control measures, such as manual removal and herbicide application, are often necessary to manage infestations.
Friendly alternatives:
Common name
Scientific Name
Plant type:
Plant type
Plant family:
Plant family (derivation)