Praiseworthy plants

摘要

It may seem a stretch to call a canna aristocratic or distinguished, but Canna 'Erebus' is that and more. Each of its stunning lance-shaped leaves is the softest gray-green, edged subtly with a cream-colored pinstripe. These luminous 5-foot-tall plants are crowned with spires of delicate pink flowers with just a blush of salmon. 'Erebus' was bred at Longwood Gardens, in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, from an aquatic species, Canna glauca. Though it may be best suited for a water garden, I usually grow 'Erebus' in a 20-inch pot to keep it portable. It shines as a patio specimen and looks great tucked into a border amid finely textured plants. It glows like a rising moon against a big clump of ornamental grass, especially the shimmering Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'. 'Erebus' is mostly disease- and pestfree, though Japanese beetles sometimes mar the foliage. Like most cannas, it likes full sun and rich soil. As for water, the more the better. My potted plants get a good soaking at least once aday. I also provide a weekly cocktail of 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer. The only other maintenance is deadheading. 'Erebus' is hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 9 but is easily overwintered in colder areas as a dormant rhizome. Once frost blackens the foliage,I cut back the stalks and dig up the rhizomes, taking a bit of care because they are longer and more delicate than those of most cannas. After any soil clinging to the rhizomes dries to the touch, I store them in a cardboard box or a ceramic pot in a dark location with some air circulation where temperatures stay between 40 deg and 60 deg F. Rhizomes in storage usually do not need additional water; too much moisture can promote fungal diseases and rot. I check mine occasionally, and if they appear to bedried out, I give them a light sprinkle from my watering can. In March or early April, I divide the rhizomes into pieces with at least two or three clawlike growing points. Then I pot the pieces and move them to the warmest, brightest place I can find.By early summer, 'Erebus' is once more aglow in my garden.