Canieflower
Tina Asked
Could you give me some info on a canie flower? Also will you describe a canie flower?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Tina: I am not familiar with a canie flower. Its it possible that you are thinking of a canna lily? If not, let me know but if so, Cannas are a fun addition to any sun-loving garden. The foliage is similar to that of a banana. The leaves are big and bold and most commonly dark green but depending on cultivar, can also be variegated. Canna flowers consist of clusters of florets all attached to a single spike-like structure. Flower color also depends on the cultivar but all will bloom better when grown in full sun. These natives are considered a tropical for Kentucky gardeners. Canna lilies will survive outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 8-12. We are zones 6-7 depending on location in the state. This means that unless they are growing in a micro-climate, they will need extra protection during the winter months. You can dig the bulbs (rhizomes) up in the fall and put them in a paper bag to store them for the winter. Keep the bag in a cool dark space like a closet until the following spring. As a landscape plant, they are happiest and most productive when grown in a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight daily and well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. I hope this is helpful.
Angie Oakley
Kentucky Living-Ask the Gardener
