Indian snakeroot

Indian shot is a common name for the plant species Canna indica, a member of the family Cannaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, but it has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many other parts of the world.

Description

Canna indica is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows to between 0.5 and 2.5 meters in height. The plant's large, broad leaves are typically green, but some cultivars have bronze or maroon leaves. The flowers, which are produced on a spike, are typically red, orange, or yellow, and are often visited by hummingbirds.

Cultivation

Canna indica is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is valued for its showy flowers and attractive foliage. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures, and the starchy rhizomes have been used as a food source.

Uses

The seeds of Canna indica, known as Indian shot, are very hard and dense. They have been used as shot in muzzle-loading guns. The seeds are also used in jewelry and musical instruments.

Invasive species

In some regions, Canna indica has become an invasive species, outcompeting native plants for resources. Control measures include manual removal and the use of herbicides.

See also

• Canna (plant)
• Invasive species in the United States

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