Canna indica

Canna indica, commonly known as Indian shot, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cannaceae, native to much of South America, Central America, the West Indies, and Mexico. It is also naturalized in many other parts of the world.

Description

Canna indica is a perennial growing to between 0.5 m and 2.5 m, depending on the variety. It is hardy to zone 10 and is frost tender. The flowers are hermaphrodite.

Cultivation

Canna indica (syn. Canna edulis) is grown especially for its edible rhizome as the source of canna starch. It is one of the most popular species for canna breeders, its chromosomes doubling readily when irradiated.

Uses

The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials. An edible starch is obtained from the root. The root can be boiled and eaten with meat. The root is large, it can be up to 60cm long and 15cm wide.

Medicinal Uses

The plant is used in traditional medicine in many cultures. In India, it is used in treatment of industrial waste water through constructed wetlands.

External links

• The Plant List
• Plants For A Future