Canna jaegeriana is a striking tropical species native to forests in South America and the Caribbean, reaching 3-6 feet tall with large banana-like leaves and small orange-red flowers. Seeds have a very tough outer shell requiring pre-treatment to improve germination rates.
Before sowing
Mechanical scarification followed by warm water soaking recommended for improved germination
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Hot water treatment (pouring boiling water over seeds and letting cool) has been reported as highly effective, with seeds germinating within a week. Seeds are relatively small (4-7 x 2-4.5 mm). Provide full light or grow lights. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Best grown from seeds indoors before transplanting after last frost.
Sources: Plant World Seeds, Organic India Seeds, Gardening Know How, Blue Nurseries, Encyclopedia of Life, POWO Kew Science, MrBrownThumb, RHS Plant Care, Aussie Green Thumb
