Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Water Canna

Thalia dealbata
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Wetland
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Purple
Fall Color:

USDA PLANTS Range Map

At the range map link above, zoom in for county-level data

Green foliage of Thalia dealbata
Photo: Carol Davit
Sun Exposure 
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
High
Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Food/Birds, Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant
Size

Height:

48 to
60
inches

Spread:

24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 48 to
60
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 48 to
60
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Use in water gardens and ponds.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in full sun in shallow water. Plants must be protected from freezing in colder areas; submerging plants in 18-24" of water may help them survive winters outside where temperatures are colder than ideal.
Special Features
Special Usage
Containers, Fresh Cut Flower, Rainscaping
Basic Description

Huge cannalike leaves are striking. Purple flowers are borne on long, wand-like stalks late in summer. The entire plant is dusted with a fine white powder.

 

Thalia plants with green leaves and purple flowers

Water canna plants at water’s edge. Photo: Carol Davit.

Where Should I Start?

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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?

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