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Rhizome
Cannaceae
Canna 'Bronze Black Knight' (1 rhizome)
Canna × generalis ‘Black Knight’
Canna ‘Black Knight’ produces deep bronze, almost purple foliage topped with brilliant bright red flowers. Its bold tropical silhouette adds dramatic contrast and elegance to the landscape.
- Quantity
- 1 rhizome
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Life cycle
- Perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 10
Discover the plant
Common nameBlack Knight Bronze Canna Lily
FamilyCannaceae
GenusCannabis
TypeRhizome
Botanical nameCanna × generalis ‘Black Knight’
Black Knight Bronze Canna Lily (Canna × generalis ‘Black Knight’) is a spectacular rhizomatous perennial prized for its very dark bronze, almost purple foliage. Its broad, glossy leaves create a tropical, sculptural silhouette that can reach approximately 150 cm (60 in) in height. From July to September, bright red flowers rise in luminous spikes above the dark foliage, creating an intense, warm, and refined contrast. Even before flowering begins, the plant adds depth and structure to garden displays. Hardy only to Zone 10, it must be protected from frost in Quebec.
Plant the rhizomes in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed thoroughly. Position them horizontally, approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep, and space them 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun with rich, fertile, organic, evenly moist, and well-drained soil. Water generously throughout active growth to maintain consistent moisture without allowing standing water. Regular applications of compost and a balanced fertilizer every two weeks encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Before the first frost, lift the rhizomes and store them in a cool, dry place.
‘Black Knight’ canna lily is ideal for tropical flower beds, borders, patios, large containers, and exotic gardens. For container growing, choose a pot at least 45 cm (18 in) in diameter with excellent drainage. Its nearly black foliage pairs beautifully with caladiums, alocasias, coleus, begonias, and ornamental grasses to create lush, strongly contrasted displays. Its brilliant red flowers attract a variety of pollinators and may also be used in summer floral arrangements. However, they are grown exclusively for ornamental purposes and are not intended for consumption.
Planting guide
Plant well.Grow beautifully.
Planting depth
10 cm (4 in)
Best planting time
Spring
Propagation
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes in spring once they have several growing buds. This ensures plants remain true to the variety.
Growing method
Plant the rhizomes in spring after all danger of frost has passed, approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Position the rhizome horizontally before covering it with soil. Space plants 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun. Water thoroughly after planting, then keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a dry place until spring.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly acidic
Minimum temperature
5°C (41°F)
Care level
Easy
Watering
Water generously throughout the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist without allowing standing water.
Soil type
Rich in organic matter, fertile, evenly moist, and perfectly drained soil.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Regular applications of compost also improve plant vigour.
Seasonal care
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Feed every two weeks. Lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
45 cm (18 in)
Container gardening requires planning for the root volume needed and the plant's final height. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a substrate suitable for planting. Leave enough space to respect recommended depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check for moisture, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature variations than planting in the ground. Therefore, plan from the outset a wintering location compatible with the plant's needs and your region's climate. Plant canna rhizomes in spring in warmed soil, after the last frosts. Choose a sunny location sheltered from winds that could tear the large leaves. Prepare fertile and loose enough soil for roots to develop around the rhizome, then place the buds facing upwards. Water after planting and monitor moisture during establishment. Once leaves have developed, watering should follow growth and weather conditions. In containers, choose a volume suited to the adult plant and keep drainage holes clear, without letting the roots dry out completely between waterings. In winter, protect the container according to the plant's needs: its roots are more exposed to cold than in the ground.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
150 cm (60 in)
Width / spread
40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in)
Flower color
Bright red
Foliage color
Very dark bronze
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Fast
Bloom period
Brilliant bright red flowers bloom abundantly from mid-summer until the first frost, attracting a variety of pollinators.
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Caladiums, alocasias, coleus, begonias, and ornamental grasses make excellent companion plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
When should Canna ‘Black Knight’ be planted?
Plant the rhizomes in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Warm soil encourages rapid growth and abundant flowering.
Can this canna be grown in containers?
Yes. This variety performs exceptionally well in large containers with rich soil and regular watering. Container growing also makes overwintering the rhizomes easier.
Why should the rhizomes be lifted in autumn?
This variety is not hardy in cold climates. The rhizomes should be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring.
How can I encourage abundant flowering?
Provide generous watering, fertilize regularly, remove spent flowers, and grow the plant in full sun for maximum flowering.
Is the foliage as ornamental as the flowers?
Yes. Its very dark bronze, almost purple foliage remains one of this variety's most striking ornamental features throughout the season.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
Pollinators
For planting your bulbs
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