Canna Leaf Roller: Identify, Control, and Choose Resistant Varieties

Leaves stitched shut? Canna leaf roller (moth larvae). They hatch, stitch leaves, hide inside.

Control

• Hand-pick as leaves unfurl—expose grubs to birds.
• Bt spray (Green Light BT, Safer Caterpillar Killer) on unrolling leaves.
• Fall cleanup: Remove all dead foliage—overwintering site.

Systemic Option (Mixed Results)

Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub (imidacloprid) applied early spring helped some growers initially, but failed by midsummer.

Best Varieties (UGA Trial)

Least damaged: 'Maudie Malcolm', 'Striped Beauty', 'Journey's End'.

Most damaged: 'Richard Wallace', 'Firebird', 'Black Knight'.

Golden Rule

Cut stems to ground and destroy all debris every winter.