Canna 'Russian Red' Canna indica 'Russian Red'

Water

The Canna Lily, commonly known as Russian Red, should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In the absence of rainfall, this typically means watering once a week with about one to two gallons of water, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. During hot or windy weather, they may need water more frequently, and less often when the weather is cool or overcast. It’s important to water deeply and slowly, so the water reaches the root zone. Be cautious not to overwater, as the Canna Lily does not like to sit in waterlogged soil.

Light

The Canna Lily thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimum growth and blooming. An ideal spot for this plant is in a garden bed or container that receives unhindered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in deep shade as this will impede its growth and reduce flowering.

Temperature

The Canna Lily prefers warm temperatures and grows best when the climate is between 60°F and 90°F. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to about 50°F, frost can cause damage to the plant. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.

Pruning

Prune the Canna Lily to remove spent flowers and dead foliage, which encourages new growth and more blooms. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed. The best time to do a major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing old growth and shaping the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Canna Lily 'Russian Red' thrives in a well-draining, fertile soil mix rich in organic matter. A balanced mixture could be composed of equal parts peat, compost, and perlite or sand. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. Regular applications of a slow-release fertilizer will benefit its growth and flowering.

Repotting

Canna Lily 'Russian Red' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Divide the rhizomes during repotting to propagate or manage the plant's size. The repotting is best done in the spring just before the growing season begins.

Humidity & Misting

Canna Lily 'Russian Red' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate to high humidity. Aim for a humidity level between 40% and 70% for optimal health and growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with ample space.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun with moist, fertile soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Canna 'Russian Red', often known as Indian Shot, begins with seed germination, where the hard seed coat breaks and the embryonic plant emerges, provided it's been scarified and exposed to warm, moist conditions. Next, the seedling develops into a juvenile plant, characterized by the growth of a rhizome and the emergence of distinctive foliage and stems. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative state, during which it continues to expand in size and produce larger leaves and stronger stems. Once environmental conditions are favorable, such as in the spring or summer, the Indian Shot enters the flowering stage, producing vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will set seeds enclosed in capsules, completing the reproductive phase. Lastly, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, where the above-ground foliage dies back and the rhizome remains dormant underground until the following growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Canna Lily 'Russian Red' is typically propagated by dividing its rhizomes, which is the most popular method for this species. The best time to divide the rhizomes is in spring when the plants are coming out of dormancy, or in the fall after the foliage has died back. To propagate, one should gently lift the clump of rhizomes out of the ground using a shovel. The soil is then carefully removed, and the rhizomes are divided by cutting them with a sharp knife, making sure each section has at least one eye or bud. These sections can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 centimeters) and spaced approximately 12 to 18 inches (30.5 to 45.7 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. It's essential to keep the newly planted rhizomes well-watered until they are established.