Expert: Long Island Gardener - 7/27/2006

Question
i saw a bulb that grows to 6-7 feet tall and has a vibrant red flower type stalk at the top. the man said it was called cane or kanis or something like that. could you tell me the proper name? thank you!. he said he pulls the plant with bulb attatched each fall and then replants in spring.

Answer
That sounds like you are talking about Cannas, Kelsey. Check out the photos by Horn Canna Farm (www.flowersbulbs.com/canna.cfm).  These are truly stunning plants. I don't blame anyone for loving them.

Cannas absolutely thrive anywhere you can give them tons of heat. In my Zone 7 climate, on Long Island, NY, we can leave Cannas in the ground for the winter with a little protective mulch.

These plants are insect- and trouble-free.  Water them once or twice a week, fertilize like you would any other flowering perennial, and you will have those 6-7 foot displays.

Best of all, established Cannas multiply, and quickly.  When you see them forming large clumps, divide, replant, and you will have them coming out of your ears in no time.

They are not picky about soil or pH but they do need a lot of sun and high temperatures if they are going to thrive.

Let me know if you would like to know how to plant them, or where to get them (you can start with flowersbulbs.com mentioned above).  Thanks for your question!