SafePlants

Indian Shot (Canna indica)

The Indian Shot plant, also known simply as Canna, is a striking herbaceous perennial with a fascinating history and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces hard seeds, sometimes referred to as "shot," which could pose a potential choking hazard if ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces hard seeds, sometimes referred to as "shot," which could pose a potential choking hazard if ingested by young children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Canna indica L.
• Common Name: Indian Shot (also referred to as Indian Shot Plant)
• Family: Cannaceae
• Synonyms: Mentions Canna edulis as a related species from which arrowroot starch is obtained.
• Cultivar: Example given: 'Durban' (Canna x generalis 'Durban') and 'Tropicanna Black' ('Lon01')

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally from Central America.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A perennial, growing to approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and 0.6 meters (2 feet) wide.
• Characterized by large, alternate leaves, which can be green or purplish-green.
• Flowers are gathered in inflorescences of red, orange, or other colors.
• Grows from a thick, branching, underground rhizome.
• Flowers from August to October.
• Hardy to zone (UK) 8 and is frost tender.

Quirky Facts

• The plant gets its common name, Indian Shot, from its hard, round seeds that resemble shotgun pellets.
• The seeds are reportedly hard enough to be shot through wood and still survive.
• Canna indica is grown specifically for its edible rootstock, from which arrowroot starch is obtained.

Ecological Role

Interactions With Other Organisms

Further Information

• Information on growing Canna can be found at GardenersHQ.
• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
• The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia is mentioned as a source of information on Indian Shot.
• Encyclopedia Britannica is mentioned as a source of multimedia information for Indian Shot.