Achira
Canna edulis
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Pl. 296F — Canna edulis
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IOverview
Overview
Achira (Canna edulis) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in full sun and moist conditions, with a preference for light to heavy soils. Native to regions including parts of Central and South America as well as the Caribbean, it has been cultivated for its edible leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots. Found across a wide range from Argentina to Venezuela, this plant is known for its ornamental value and culinary uses. One distinctive feature is its height, reaching up to 3 meters; another notable characteristic is its adaptability to various soil types, making it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes in USDA hardiness zones 7-10.
Quick answers
What is Achira?
Achira (Canna edulis) is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in full sun and moist conditions, with a preference for light to heavy soils. Native to regions including parts of Central and South America as well as the Caribbean, it has been cultivated for its edible leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Achira thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of up to 3 meters. Propagate Achira through seeds or by dividing the rootstock. Harvest its edible parts including leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Achira for the first time
8steps
Achira is a forgiving plant for beginners, but it requires consistent moisture and full sun.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. Containers should be at least 30 cm (12 inches) deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm (1 inch) deep, or transplant young plants into the soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place in a sunny location. Water daily until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health, and harvest shoots for culinary use as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune regularly, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootSeedShoots
Edible uses: Achira is used for its various edible parts including leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked in dishes like soups and stews. Roots are often boiled or roasted. Seeds are typically ground into flour. Shoots are commonly consumed as a vegetable, either fresh or cooked.
Other uses:Animal feedMulchStarch
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas15 regions
native (15)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaGuyanaHaitiHondurasJamaicaNicaragua
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Florida, Leeward Is., Louisiana, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Panamá, Argentina Northwest
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Growing zone
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