These form a very important part of the class of which we are treating.
They give a very beautiful and tropical appearance to the lawn and the
garden by their stately growth and broad massive foliage, relieved by
rich crimson, scarlet and orange-red flowers. Their foliage comprises
various shades of green, glaucous, chocolate and purple tints, ribbed
and striped, fitting them admirably for grouping with other plants.
They are also very effective for large pot plants in the
pleasure-ground, or conservatory. Under rich cultivation they will
attain the height of five feet. They need water often. Among the newer
roots _Creole_, very dark foliage, grows to the height of about six
feet. _Ornement du Grand Rond_, very tall, with large bronzy-green
foliage, large scarlet flowers. _Oriflamme_ has large lanceolate-green
leaves, with violet veins, a vigorous showy plant with salmon-orange
flowers.
The roots of Cannas must be taken up in the autumn. If wanted singly,
divide them, if a thick clump is desirable let them be planted out as
they are. They must be kept perfectly dry through the winter; if the
cellar is very damp they will do better packed in sand.