Growing to 6 or 7 feet, ‘Sémaphore’ features slender, dark-bronze leaves topped by spikes of narrow-petaled flowers of an unusual glowing color that’s not quite yellow and not quite orange; perhaps flickering tongues of flame would be the best description. It is a Victorian classic from 1895.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsDark-bronze leaves, glowing flowers. Heirloom.
CareFertile soil, full sun. Water freely in dry weather and deadhead regularly. Where not hardy, lift after frost in autumn and store in a frost-free location in barely damp peat or leaf mold. In a greenhouse, cannas need full light with shade from hot sun. Water freely and fertilize during the growth stage.
PropagationTo aid in sprouting, chip seeds or soak in warm water for 24 hours, and then sow at 70°F in spring or autumn. Divide in spring, and then pot up at 61°F, wateringly lightly at first.
ProblemsSlugs, snails, spider mites, and caterpillars may be problematic, while rust, fungal leaf spot, and bacterial blight are common. Bean yellow mosaic and tomato spotted wilt viruses can occur.
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- Genus : Canna
- Zones : 10, 11, 8, 9
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Showy Foliage
- Uses : Containers
- Light : Full Sun
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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