Troubleshooting
Canna 'Cleopatra' problems — and how to fix them
Canna 'Cleopatra' (Canna 'Cleopatra') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Reversion in flower colour
Due to genetic instability, some stems may produce entirely one-colour blooms rather than the prized bicolour. This is a natural trait, not a disease.
Canna leaf roller
Caterpillars roll and feed inside leaves. Inspect new growth regularly; remove by hand or spray with Bt.
Aphids
Colonise new shoots and can carry viruses. Control with insecticidal soap or a strong water jet.
Rhizome rot
Heavy, poorly drained soils lead to rot. Improve soil structure and store rhizomes dry and frost-free over winter.
Virus mosaic
Streaked, puckered foliage is a sign of mosaic virus. Control aphid vectors and remove infected plants.
Prevent canna 'cleopatra' problems before they start
Most canna 'cleopatra' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Canna 'Cleopatra' problems — FAQ
Why is my canna 'cleopatra' reversion in flower colour?
Due to genetic instability, some stems may produce entirely one-colour blooms rather than the prized bicolour. This is a natural trait, not a disease.
Why is my canna 'cleopatra' canna leaf roller?
Caterpillars roll and feed inside leaves. Inspect new growth regularly; remove by hand or spray with Bt.
Why is my canna 'cleopatra' aphids?
Colonise new shoots and can carry viruses. Control with insecticidal soap or a strong water jet.
Why is my canna 'cleopatra' rhizome rot?
Heavy, poorly drained soils lead to rot. Improve soil structure and store rhizomes dry and frost-free over winter.
Why is my canna 'cleopatra' virus mosaic?
Streaked, puckered foliage is a sign of mosaic virus. Control aphid vectors and remove infected plants.