Thalia

Showy, decidedly tropical-looking. Leaves to 20" long and 10" wide, white powdery on the underside, green with a fine red margin on the upper surface. Can grow to 10' tall in warm climates. A member of the same family as the prayer plant, and like that plant it folds its leaves upward at night. Flowers are small, purple, borne in clusters on an upright stalk in summer. Similar in general appearance to the garden canna, although not closely related to it. For moist to wet soil or water to perhaps 12-18" deep. Roots need protection from hard freezing. In cold climates, protect plants for the winter by growing in water or mulching thoroughly.