The Canna indica, commonly known as Indian Shot, is a perennial tropical plant that brightens gardens with its vibrant colours and majestic foliage. Native to the tropical regions of the Americas, this plant is widely appreciated for its aesthetics and ease of cultivation. Indeed, the Indian Shot is distinguished by its large green leaves, sometimes tinged with purple, and its flowers in various shades, ranging from red to yellow to orange.
In the botanical garden of Au Bois Vert, located in Ivato near Antananarivo, the Canna indica or Indian Shot holds a special place due to its ability to add an exotic touch to landscaping. Moreover, its sturdy stems, which can reach a height of 1 to 3 metres, provide structure and verticality to any green space. Additionally, its bright flowers attract butterflies and bees, thereby contributing to local biodiversity.
The Canna indica thrives in rich, well-drained soils, under a warm and humid climate. Furthermore, its flowering, which generally extends from late spring to autumn, offers a continuous display of colours. In tropical environments, this plant withstands varying climatic conditions well, making it a highly prized species in botanical gardens.
In the surroundings of hotels, restaurants, and lodges in the Ivato region, the Indian Shot is often used to create colourful borders or to adorn shaded areas. Lastly, its rapid growth and tolerance to different types of soil make it an ideal plant for both amateur gardeners and landscaping professionals.
Plant use
The Canna indica, beyond its ornamental role, plays an important part in various traditions and uses. Its rhizomes are often used to produce flour, especially in certain regions of Latin America and Asia. This flour, extracted after cooking and grinding, is used in the preparation of various traditional dishes. Moreover, its large and sturdy leaves are commonly used to wrap food, especially for steaming. In a medical context, some communities use parts of the plant, such as its rhizomes or flowers, to prepare infusions or poultices. These preparations are used to relieve inflammations or skin irritations. However, these medicinal uses remain traditional and require precautions. In the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, the Canna indica also plays an ecological role by enhancing soil retention thanks to its deep rhizomes. This plant limits erosion, particularly on sloped terrains or areas exposed to frequent rainfall. Additionally, it is an important resource for bees and other pollinators, which benefit from its nectar-rich flowers. Finally, the Canna indica fits perfectly into the landscaping of hotels and restaurants in the Ivato region. Its dense and colourful foliage creates visually attractive spaces while offering soothing shaded areas. By promoting the Canna indica in its green spaces, the Au Bois Vert botanical garden highlights the richness of tropical flora and its role in both urban and rural environments.
Key information
| Common name | Indian Shot |
| Scientific name | Canna indica |
| Origin | Tropical America |
| Natural habitat | Humid and tropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | Spring to autumn |
