Definition

Noun: * Canna edulis: A species of canna plant cultivated primarily for its large, edible rhizomes (underground stems), which are a source of starch. It is also known as achira or edible canna.

Usage

• The term "Canna edulis" is used specifically to refer to this plant species in botanical, agricultural, and culinary contexts. It names the plant itself.
• Example: "Farmers in the Andes have cultivated for centuries as a food crop."

Advanced Usage

• The starch extracted from the rhizomes of is sometimes called "canna starch" or "achira starch" and can be used similarly to other starches like arrowroot or cornstarch.
• Example: "The rhizome of can be cooked and eaten like a vegetable or processed into a fine, digestible starch."

Variants and Related Words

• Achira: A common name for , particularly in South America.
• Edible canna: A descriptive English name for the plant.
• Queensland arrowroot: A name sometimes used, though it can cause confusion with true arrowroot ().
• Canna indica: A closely related ornamental species. is sometimes considered a variety or subspecies of .

Synonyms

• Achira
• Edible canna

Notes on Meaning

• Botanical Meaning: Specifically refers to the plant species within the genus (family Cannaceae) valued for its edible parts.
• Culinary/Economic Meaning: Refers to the plant as a source of food and starch. It is not typically grown as an ornamental flower like other canna species.

Noun

1. canna grown especially for its edible rootstock from which arrowroot starch is obtained