Canna flaccida

Canna flaccida · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Canna flaccida is a unique herbaceous perennial native to the wetlands of the southeastern United States. This species is characterized by its slender, drooping leaves and vibrant floral displays that attract various pollinators. For specialized cultivation and research purposes, the plant can be grown in liquid media supplemented with glass beads to ensure stability and nutrient access. This specific growth method allows for precise monitoring of root development within a controlled environment. Understanding its physiological responses in such media provides valuable insights into the plant's adaptive capabilities.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Canna Glauca Var. Flava · Eurystylus Flaccidus · 3 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Cannaceae
Distribution
Southern America
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Canna flaccida is a versatile plant known by several distinct common names depending on the region. It is widely recognized as the balisier, a name that highlights its striking appearance. In the wetlands, it is frequently called the bandana-of-the-Everglades or the bandanna of the Everglades. Enthusiasts also refer to this species as the golden canna due to its vibrant hues. Furthermore, it holds the unique moniker of guldkanna among certain botanical circles.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Canna flaccida is a plant species that has been documented under several different botanical names throughout scientific history. Taxonomic studies have linked it to various synonyms, including the classifications of Canna glauca var. flaccida and Canna glauca var. flava. It is also recognized in older literature as Canna reevesii, highlighting the evolving nature of botanical nomenclature. Furthermore, the plant has been categorized under the genus Eurystylus, specifically as Eurystylus flaccidus and Eurystylus reevesii. Understanding these complex relationships is essential for researchers tracking the formal identity of this particular species.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Canna flaccida is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Zingiberales, a group that includes many striking tropical plants. Furthermore, this plant is a specific representative of the genus Canna. Ultimately, its botanical identity is defined by its placement within the family Cannaceae.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Zingiberales
Family Cannaceae
Genus Canna

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Canna flaccida exhibits a broad and diverse geographical distribution that spans across multiple continents. In Asia, this plant is widely found throughout the tropical regions of the Indian Subcontinent, including specific populations in Bangladesh and India. Its reach extends further into the Malesia region, where it is also established in the Philippines. Moving into North America, the species can be identified within the varied landscapes of Mexico. Specifically, its presence is noted throughout both Mexico Central and the coastal areas of the Mexico Gulf.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Canna flaccida is a distinctive herb characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This plant typically reaches a height of at least 1.3 meters, allowing it to stand firmly in its natural habitat. As it matures, many specimens grow to a minimum of 1.65 meters. For most individuals, the upward reach can extend to a maximum height of 2 meters. These varying dimensions contribute to the plant's impressive presence within its ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Preparations

Canna flaccida achieves its highest multiplication of shoots when prepared as liquid media with glass beads. This specific medium was tested alongside semisolid and liquid submerged options during research on shoot multiplication. Within a six-week culture incubation period, this particular preparation yielded ten shoots for the cultivar. The study utilized this method to identify the most effective protocol for enhancing growth in different canna varieties. Consequently, the use of liquid media with glass beads proved superior for the regeneration process of Canna flaccida.

Parts used