(Canna 'Sémaphore') KAN-ah Genus:  Canna Growing to 6 or 7 feet, 'Sémaphore' features slender, dark-bronze leaves topped by spikes of narrow-petaled flowers of an unusual glowing color that's not quite yellow and not quite orange; perhaps flickering tongues of flame would be the best description. It is a Victorian classic from 1895. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Dark-bronze leaves, glowing flowers. Heirloom. Care:  Fertile soil, full sun. Water freely in dry weather and deadhead regularly. Where not hardy, lift after frost in autumn and store in a frost-free location in barely damp peat or leaf mold. In a greenhouse, cannas need full light with shade from hot sun. Water freely and fertilize during the growth stage. Propagation:  To aid in sprouting, chip seeds or soak in warm water for 24 hours, and then sow at 70°F in spring or autumn. Divide in spring, and then pot up at 61°F, wateringly lightly at first. Problems:  Slugs, snails, spider mites, and caterpillars may be problematic, while rust, fungal leaf spot, and bacterial blight are common. Bean yellow mosaic and tomato spotted wilt viruses can occur.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Hummingbirds, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Salmon Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Style Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials