Musa zebrina (Blood banana)

'Pretoria' is perhaps the showiest of all of the variegated cannas and one of the best for hot, humid, sunny southern gardens. Favored for its bright green and yellow variegated foliage and deep tangerine flowers, 'Pretoria' will grow at the edge of ponds in shallow water as well as in normal garden conditions. It is adaptable to heat and humidity. Protect in the northern part of its range, or lift tubers in fall where not hardy and store over winter.

'Green Gold' is a vigorous oldie but goodie with striking, predominantly silver leaves and deep green veining. New leaves project a warm golden glow and are outlined with a delicate burgundy edging. The silver color brightens up shady nooks and plays nicely with others.

'Escargot' is an extremely popular Rex hybrid begonia that is quickly becoming a household name. Its moniker reflects the snail-shaped curl located where the base of the leaf meets the leaf stem. The intriguing foliage can stand on its own but also mingles beautifully with other foliage plants and brightly colored blooms.

'Marmaduke' Rex begonia sports chocolate-colored speckles across golden leaves. The effect is mesmerizing, and the rich earth tones combine well with solid-colored foliage plants and yellow or rusty-hued blooms.