Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ is a visually striking plant known for its dramatic foliage and vibrant blooms. Its leaves feature bold stripes of green and yellow, often accented with a reddish-maroon edge, creating a tiger-like pattern. This tropical perennial produces bright, melon-orange flowers that emerge on tall stalks, adding a burst of color to gardens and containers. Its unique variegated leaves and showy blossoms make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking an exotic ornamental plant.
Growing Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’
Plant Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ rhizomes in spring, after the last frost and when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C). They thrive in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal foliage variegation and abundant flowering. Partial shade is tolerated, but insufficient sun reduces bloom production.
Optimal soil conditions include well-draining, rich soil with ample organic matter. They adapt to various soil types, including loam, sand, and clay amended with organic material. They prefer a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil pH, ranging from 6.0 to 8.0.
Consistent moisture is important, especially during dry periods, as these plants prefer moist conditions and do not tolerate drying out. While they can thrive in moist or even wet soil, good drainage is necessary to prevent waterlogging and rhizome rot. Regular deep watering helps ensure the roots receive adequate moisture.
Regular fertilization benefits ‘Bengal Tiger’ throughout its growing season due to its vigorous growth. A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5 or 10-10-10) applied monthly or at least twice during the growing season supports healthy development and continuous blooming. Incorporating organic matter like compost into the soil at planting also provides a steady supply of nutrients.
As a tropical plant, ‘Bengal Tiger’ is hardy outdoors year-round in USDA growing zones 8 through 11. In colder zones (3-7), it is grown as an annual or its rhizomes must be lifted and stored indoors for winter. The plant can reach heights of 4 to 6 feet, with a spread of 2 to 4 feet, making it a bold presence in the garden.
Pruning and deadheading maintain the plant’s appearance and encourage more blooms. Removing spent flowers prevents seed production, redirecting energy towards new flower development. Trimming yellowing or damaged leaves improves overall aesthetic and health. New stems continuously emerge, and cutting out older, duller stems can enhance the appearance of younger, more vibrant foliage.
Propagating Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’
Propagating Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ is most effectively done by dividing its rhizomes. This is best done in spring before new growth, or in fall when lifting rhizomes for winter storage. Dividing rhizomes alleviates congestion, which can lead to reduced flowering.
To divide, carefully dig up the clump, shaking off excess soil to expose the rhizomes. Each section for replanting should have at least one “eye” or growth point, indicating where new shoots will emerge. Rhizomes can be broken apart by hand or separated with a clean, sharp knife.
After division, replant rhizome sections directly into prepared soil or pots. Plant them 2 to 4 inches deep, eyes facing upwards, spaced 18 to 24 inches apart for future growth. This method ensures new plants retain the ‘Bengal Tiger’ characteristics.
Common Issues and Solutions
Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ can encounter common problems, including foliage pests. Canna leaf rollers cause leaves to curl and damage. Aphids, slugs, and snails also feed on leaves. Regular inspection aids early detection; address pests with organic solutions like insecticidal soap or manual removal.
Fungal issues like rust appear as small, reddish-brown spots on leaves. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering help prevent such diseases. Viral diseases, like canna mosaic virus, cause streaking or mottling; remove affected plants to prevent spread, as there is no cure. Maintaining plant vigor through proper care enhances disease resistance.
Environmental stressors impact plant health and appearance. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Adjusting watering and ensuring adequate fertilization resolve these issues. Lack of flowering often points to insufficient sunlight or poor nutrition, while browning leaf tips suggest low humidity, especially in dry climates.
Winter Care and Storage
In colder climates (zones 7 and below) where Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ is not winter-hardy, lifting and storing rhizomes is essential for overwintering. Begin the process after the first hard frost kills back foliage, but before the ground freezes solid. Waiting until after a frost allows the plant to store maximum energy in its rhizomes for the next growing season.
Cut foliage back to 2 to 6 inches above ground level. Carefully dig up rhizome clumps, avoiding damage, as wounds invite rot during storage. After digging, remove most soil from the rhizomes.
Air dry rhizomes for several days in a warm, well-ventilated area (70-80°F / 21-27°C) to cure them and prevent mold. Once dry, store them in a cool, dark, frost-free location above 40°F (4°C), such as a basement or garage.
Pack rhizomes with peat moss, vermiculite, or newspaper to prevent complete drying while allowing air circulation. Throughout winter, periodically check stored rhizomes and discard any showing signs of rot or shriveling. In spring, after frost danger passes, inspect healthy rhizomes for new growth points and replant.