Clump-forming perennial to 1.5m tall with dark purple paddle-shaped leaves, and stems flushed with very dark purple, almost black. Bright tomato-red flowers appear from early summer to mid-autumn
1-1.5 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
As a patio plant grow in pots of peat-free compost in a sheltered site in full sun. Plants can also be planted into a sunny border. Water freely and apply a high potassium feed every 2-3 weeks in the growing season. Lift the rhizomes in autumn when frost blackens the foliage. Store over winter in barely moist compost in frost-free conditions. See canna cultivation for further information
Propagate by division of the rhizomes in spring
No pruning required but deadhead to promote continued flowering
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids, slugs and snails
May be susceptible to canna viruses