Canna indica Indian shot (Cannaceae)

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Canna indica
Indian shot
(1 Page of 5)

The Canna indica plant species is found in S. America. W. Indies. Locally naturalized in the warmest parts of S. Europe[50]. It is a member of the Cannaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Indian shot.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Canna indica
Common Name:  Indian shot
Family:  Cannaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  1.5   Mature Width:  0.6

Habitat:  Original habitat is obscure, but it is found by the coast and in temperate valleys of the Andes[97].

General Uses: The plant yields a fibre - from the stem? - it is a jute substitute[114]. A fibre obtained from the leaves is used for making paper[189]. The leaves are harvested in late summer after the plant has flowered, they are scraped to remove the outer skin and are then soaked in water for 2 hours prior to cooking. The fibres are cooked for 24 hours with lye and then beaten in a blender. They make a light tan brown paper[189]. A purple dye is obtained from the seed[114]. Smoke from the burning leaves is said to be insecticidal[218].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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