Troubleshooting
Canna 'Durban' problems — and how to fix them
Canna 'Durban' (Canna 'Durban') 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.
Canna leaf roller
The caterpillar of the Brazilian skipper butterfly rolls leaves and feeds within. Hand-pick egg masses and larvae; Bt spray is effective on young caterpillars.
Spider mites
Fine webbing and stippled, dull foliage indicate mite damage in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and use an insecticidal soap spray.
Aphids
Cluster on new growth and can vector viruses. Blast off with a strong jet of water or use a neem-oil spray.
Rhizome rot
Over-wet soils lead to bacterial or fungal rot at the rhizome. Improve drainage and avoid watering after growth slows in autumn.
Wind damage
Tall stems snap in exposed positions. Stake plants or site them in a wind-sheltered spot.
Prevent canna 'durban' problems before they start
Most canna 'durban' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Canna 'Durban' problems — FAQ
Why is my canna 'durban' canna leaf roller?
The caterpillar of the Brazilian skipper butterfly rolls leaves and feeds within. Hand-pick egg masses and larvae; Bt spray is effective on young caterpillars.
Why is my canna 'durban' spider mites?
Fine webbing and stippled, dull foliage indicate mite damage in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and use an insecticidal soap spray.
Why is my canna 'durban' aphids?
Cluster on new growth and can vector viruses. Blast off with a strong jet of water or use a neem-oil spray.
Why is my canna 'durban' rhizome rot?
Over-wet soils lead to bacterial or fungal rot at the rhizome. Improve drainage and avoid watering after growth slows in autumn.
Why is my canna 'durban' wind damage?
Tall stems snap in exposed positions. Stake plants or site them in a wind-sheltered spot.