Canna Lily
Scientific name: Canna indica
☘️ Toxicity: Safe for cats
☀️ Ideal light: Full sun to bright partial shade (indoors, very bright indirect light)
💧 Watering: Regular; keep soil slightly moist but well-drained
Canna Lily is a medium-sized tropical herb with large, elegant leaves and vibrant flowers. It thrives in sunny, humid environments and adapts well to pots or garden beds, bringing a lush, tropical look to patios and terraces. Despite its nickname “garden banana,” it’s a different species — and completely safe for cats.
Essential care
- Light: Prefers full sun but also tolerates partial shade. Indoors, provide abundant indirect light.
- Water: Water regularly to keep the substrate slightly moist; reduce frequency in colder seasons.
- Substrate: Rich and well-draining — 2 parts potting soil, 1 part compost, 1 part coarse sand or perlite.
- Temperature: Thrives between 18–30 °C (64–86 °F); protect from frost and strong winds.
- Fertilization: Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 20–30 days during active growth.
- Maintenance: Remove dry leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain aesthetics.
Pests and how to handle them
- Aphids and mealybugs: Control with neem oil spray or cotton soaked in alcohol 70%.
- Snails and caterpillars: Remove manually or use natural repellents such as coffee grounds.
- Fungal spots: Improve ventilation and avoid wetting the leaves excessively.
Propagation
- Rhizome division: The most common method — separate healthy rhizomes with at least one bud and replant in fertile substrate.
- Seeds: Can be used, but germination is slower and may vary from the parent plant.
Cat safety
- Classification: Non-toxic to cats (confirmed by ASPCA).
- Best practice: Place pots in stable positions to prevent cats from toppling them during play.
- Bonus: Large leaves help filter air and provide natural shade in balconies or patios.
💡 Despite the nickname “banana lily,” this species is unrelated to true lilies — and unlike many lilies, it poses no risk to cats.
Frequently asked questions
- Can it be grown indoors? Yes, if placed near a very bright window and watered regularly.
- Does it bloom all year? No, it blooms mainly in spring and summer in warm climates.
- Can it grow in water? It tolerates moist soil but should not remain submerged.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ Full sun or bright light
- 💧 Regular watering, well-drained soil
- 🪴 Fertile substrate rich in compost
- ✂️ Remove old leaves and flowers
- 🐾 Safe for cats