Water Canna (Canna glauca)

Water Canna

Canna glauca

Its blue-green foliage holds quiet aquatic elegance, rising above shallow water. Perennial aquatic ornamental; common name: water canna.

Full sun
0/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; requires 6+ hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering and foliage color
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Watering Grows in shallow standing water (10–30 cm depth); maintain consistent water level to prevent root drying
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C to avoid foliage browning and stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Long, lanceolate blue-green leaves up to 60 cm long with smooth, waxy texture
  • Flower: Pale yellow to creamy white tubular flowers arranged in terminal spikes
  • Stem: Thick, succulent upright stems with waxy coating to repel excess water
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain 10–30 cm water depth; top up weekly to replace evaporation

Fertilization

Diluted aquatic plant feed every 2 weeks. Use low-nitrogen aquatic fertilizer to prevent excessive algae growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Grind dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle sparingly on aquatic substrate to add calcium without water contamination
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming throughout summer
  • Trim yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain tidy appearance and improve air circulation
  • Cut back stems to 15 cm above water after first frost in temperate regions to prepare for dormancy
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxic effects on cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience in wetland habitats and quiet aquatic beauty

Usage: Aquatic garden ornamental, erosion control for pond edges, and habitat for small aquatic wildlife