16/05/2025
🌿 Alien Invasive Alert: Canna indica 🌿
Also known as Indian shot, canna lily, or bandera plant
It may look beautiful with its bold leaves and vibrant blooms, but Canna indica is no friend to our local ecosystems.
Originally from tropical America, this garden escapee is now listed as a Category 1b invasive species in South Africa under NEMBA. That means it's illegal to plant, propagate, or trade. It needs to be removed and controlled.
💥 Why is it a problem?
This hardy plant invades wetlands, riverbanks, and forest margins, pushing out our indigenous plants, reducing biodiversity, and disrupting natural water systems.
🛑 How does it spread?
Canna indica spreads aggressively via underground rhizomes and seeds, quickly forming dense stands that are incredibly difficult to remove once established.
🌱 What can you do?
✔ Learn to identify Canna indica in your garden or community
✔ Remove and destroy the plants responsibly (including root systems!)
✔ Replant with water-loving indigenous alternatives like Crinum macowanii (river lily) or Kniphofia species (red hot pokers)
Let’s protect the natural beauty of South Africa by giving space back to our indigenous flora 💚
Join the movement. Uproot the invaders. Plant local.
