Indian Shot Plant / Canna Lily 'Russian Red'

Canna 'Russian Red' is one of the tallest and most imposing Canna cultivars available to UK gardeners, often reaching heights of 2 metres or more. It is primarily grown for its magnificent, oversized foliage; the leaves are a deep, bronzy-purple with green undertones, providing an instant tropical effect in the garden. In late summer, it produces relatively small, delicate orange flowers that contrast beautifully with the dark leaves. Given its height, it is an ideal choice for the back of a border or as a dramatic focal point in a large container. It is a tender tuberous perennial (H3) that requires a warm, sunny, sheltered spot and plenty of moisture and nutrients during the growing season. In most parts of the UK, the rhizomatous tubers must be lifted and stored in a frost-free place for the winter, though in very mild coastal areas, they may survive in the ground with a very heavy mulch. It is heavy-feeding and appreciates well-rotted manure.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Aug, Sep, Oct.