Canna lilies are the perfect addition to any garden, offering vibrant, tropical blooms, bold foliage, and a low-maintenance growing experience. Known for their striking flowers and lush leaves, these plants have earned their place in gardens across the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to add a touch of color to your outdoor space, canna lilies are an excellent choice.
What Are Canna Lilies?
Canna lilies (Canna spp.) are tropical and subtropical plants that are prized for their large, dramatic flowers and lush, green, sometimes variegated, foliage. Despite the name “lily,” they are not true lilies (which belong to the Lilium genus). They belong to the family Cannaceae and are native to regions of Central and South America. Cannas are especially famous for their ability to create a tropical look in gardens, thanks to their large, bold foliage and vibrant blooms that come in an array of colors including red, yellow, orange, pink, and even purple.
The Origin of Canna Lilies
Cannas have been cultivated for centuries. They were first discovered in the wilds of South and Central America, where they grew along rivers, lakes, and other moist areas. Early on, they were used for ornamental purposes by indigenous people. In the 19th century, canna lilies became popular in Europe and North America as exotic plants, thanks to their tropical appearance. Today, they are a favorite in gardens worldwide and have evolved into many different hybrid varieties.
The Different Types of Canna Lilies
Canna lilies come in a wide range of varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some are grown primarily for their vibrant flowers, while others are appreciated for their attractive foliage or both. Here are some of the most popular types of canna lilies:
1. Canna ‘Tropical Red’
Flower Color: Red
Foliage: Green, bold
Height: 3-4 feet
Ideal for: Tropical gardens, color contrast in flower beds
Canna ‘Tropical Red’ is a beloved variety that is adored for its eye-catching, rich red flowers. The vivid blooms contrast beautifully with its deep green foliage, creating an instantly tropical feel in your garden. The plant has a compact stature, making it a great option for garden beds, borders, or even containers where you want to make a statement without overwhelming the space.
This variety is perfect for brightening up your garden, particularly in the summer months when it blooms profusely. The red flowers of ‘Tropical Red’ also tend to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a fantastic choice for creating a pollinator-friendly garden. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to a mixed border or brighten up the edges of a tropical-inspired garden, Canna ‘Tropical Red’ is an excellent choice.
2. Canna ‘Lucifer’
Flower Color: Deep red
Foliage: Green
Height: 4-5 feet
Ideal for: Bold garden displays, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies
The name ‘Lucifer’ itself suggests fiery intensity, and this variety certainly lives up to it. Canna ‘Lucifer’ is renowned for its striking deep red flowers, which appear in dramatic clusters atop tall, sturdy stems. This variety is perfect for gardeners who want to create a bold focal point in their garden or flower beds.
With a height of 4 to 5 feet, Canna ‘Lucifer’ can make an impressive statement in the garden. The deep red flowers of this variety are especially effective when planted in clusters, drawing attention to your outdoor space. Hummingbirds and butterflies are drawn to the intense red flowers, making this an excellent choice for a pollinator-friendly garden. ‘Lucifer’ also pairs well with other plants in the garden, providing a strong contrast against lighter-colored blooms and green foliage.
3. Canna ‘Cleopatra’
Flower Color: Orange with yellow undertones
Foliage: Variegated green, yellow, and red
Height: 3-4 feet
Ideal for: Unique garden accents, variegated foliage lovers
Canna ‘Cleopatra’ is an elegant variety known for its unique, striking variegated foliage. The leaves of this variety combine shades of green, yellow, and red, which create an exotic, eye-catching effect even before the flowers bloom. This makes it a fantastic choice for gardeners who appreciate the beauty of foliage as much as flowers.
When ‘Cleopatra’ does bloom, it produces vibrant orange flowers with a hint of yellow that are bold and attention-grabbing. The contrast of the flowers against the variegated leaves creates an especially dramatic effect. This variety works well as a focal point in flower beds, and its color can pair beautifully with both tropical and contemporary garden designs. Whether you’re looking for a unique color scheme or a plant that stands out with both its flowers and foliage, ‘Cleopatra’ will not disappoint.
4. Canna ‘Pretoria’
Flower Color: Orange and yellow
Foliage: Dark green with yellow and green stripes
Height: 5-6 feet
Ideal for: Tall garden structures, dramatic vertical accents
Canna ‘Pretoria’ is a striking variety with dark green leaves that are uniquely marked with bright yellow and green stripes. The bold foliage makes it a standout plant in any garden, even before it flowers. Its height, reaching up to 6 feet, gives it a dramatic, vertical presence, making it a great addition to the back of flower beds or as a tall accent plant in larger landscapes.
In addition to its stunning foliage, Canna ‘Pretoria’ blooms with bright orange and yellow flowers that add even more vibrancy to its already striking appearance. The vibrant flowers contrast beautifully with the bold, striped foliage, creating a visual spectacle. This variety is perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their garden design, and its tall stature is ideal for creating dramatic vertical accents or screening in larger spaces.
5. Canna ‘Yellow King Humbert’
Flower Color: Bright yellow with orange markings
Foliage: Green
Height: 3-4 feet
Ideal for: Bright summer color, large garden displays
Canna ‘Yellow King Humbert’ is all about the blooms. Known for its large, bright yellow flowers with orange markings, this variety creates a stunning display of color that is sure to catch the eye. The flowers appear in large clusters and are particularly striking against its lush green foliage. This variety is especially perfect for those looking to brighten up their garden with cheerful, vibrant colors throughout the summer.
The blooms of Canna ‘Yellow King Humbert’ provide a tropical, sunny feeling and pair wonderfully with other summer flowers in your garden. Whether planted in large clumps or as individual accents in borders, this canna variety will not only add color but also create a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere. ‘Yellow King Humbert’ is great for those who want an energetic, showy plant to add warmth and brightness to their outdoor space.
6. Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’
Flower Color: Orange-red
Foliage: Striped yellow and green
Height: 3-4 feet
Ideal for: Unique garden accents, adding a tropical flair
Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ is one of the most unique canna varieties available due to its striking foliage. The leaves feature a bold yellow and green striped pattern, which gives the plant a tiger-like appearance. This striking foliage alone makes it a showstopper, even before the plant begins to flower.
When Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’ blooms, it produces fiery orange-red flowers that stand out beautifully against its bold, striped leaves. The vivid flowers create a perfect contrast, amplifying the unique look of the foliage. This variety is ideal for those looking to create a garden with a tropical flair, or for anyone interested in adding a distinctive, bold plant to their flower beds or borders. Its combination of vibrant blooms and visually exciting foliage makes ‘Bengal Tiger’ a fantastic choice for garden enthusiasts who want to experiment with striking color contrasts.
Growing Canna Lilies: Step-by-Step Guide
Canna lilies thrive in warm, sunny climates but are adaptable enough to be grown in temperate regions as well. They are known for their ability to create lush, tropical environments with minimal effort. Here’s what you need to know to successfully grow them:
1. Location and Sunlight
Cannas love sunlight, so provide plenty of it!
Canna lilies are sun-loving plants, and they truly shine when given full sun exposure. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is essential for the best results. The more sunlight they receive, the taller and stronger they will grow, producing abundant flowers and vibrant foliage.
However, in areas with particularly hot summers, canna lilies can benefit from some afternoon shade, especially during the peak of the heat. While they can handle full sun, a little relief from the intense afternoon heat can prevent their leaves from scorching and help maintain a longer flowering period.
Pro Tip: If you’re planting cannas in a container, place them where they can enjoy plenty of sunlight, such as a sunny patio or deck. Just make sure the container allows for adequate drainage, and your canna will thrive in the sunniest spots.
2. Soil Requirements
Rich, well-draining soil is key to happy cannas.
Cannas are not overly picky about soil, but they perform best in rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. To provide them with the ideal environment, consider the following soil factors:
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Soil Texture: Cannas prefer soil that has a loamy texture, which combines sand, silt, and clay. Loamy soil retains moisture well but also drains excess water efficiently. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic matter like compost, peat moss, or aged manure to improve its structure.
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Moisture Retention: Canna lilies enjoy moisture but dislike standing water. If your soil tends to get too soggy, make sure to improve drainage by incorporating sand or organic matter. If you’re planting in containers, ensure they have drainage holes to prevent water from collecting at the bottom.
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Soil pH: Cannas grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. You can easily test your soil’s pH with a soil testing kit and amend it if necessary. If your soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH; if it’s too alkaline, mix in sulfur to lower the pH.
3. Planting Canna Lilies
Planting cannas properly sets the foundation for healthy growth.
Canna lilies are typically grown from tubers, which are bulb-like structures that store the plant’s energy. Here’s how to plant them:
Timing:
- The best time to plant canna lilies is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. Cannas are frost-sensitive, so it’s important to wait until the soil has warmed up to around 60°F (15°C) before planting. In colder climates, you might want to wait until late spring to ensure the soil temperature is high enough.
Spacing:
- Canna lilies can grow quite large, with some varieties reaching up to 5 feet in height and spreading out significantly. To give them enough room to grow and spread, space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart. This allows enough space for their large flowers and wide leaves while preventing overcrowding that could restrict airflow.
Depth:
- When planting the canna tubers, dig a hole about 4 to 6 inches deep. Place the tuber in the hole with the “eyes” (small buds or growth points) facing upwards. If you’re unsure which side is up, don’t worry too much—canna tubers are pretty resilient, and they’ll find their way to the surface naturally. After placing the tuber in the hole, cover it with soil and water it well to help settle the soil around the tuber.
Pro Tip: For more even growth, consider planting cannas in rows or large clumps. This can enhance their visual impact when they bloom and help them look like a cohesive unit in the garden.
4. Watering Canna Lilies
Cannas like their feet moist, but not soggy.
Canna lilies are moisture-loving plants, so consistent watering is key to their success. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance—while they enjoy moist soil, they do not like to sit in standing water, which can cause their tubers to rot. Here’s how to water your cannas properly:
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Water Regularly: During the growing season, especially in hot weather, ensure your canna lilies receive plenty of water. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soaked. If you’re in a particularly dry region, you may need to water more frequently, especially during long dry spells.
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Water at the Base: To prevent the foliage from becoming too wet, water your canna lilies at the base of the plant. This will help keep the leaves dry, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
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Mulch for Moisture Retention: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and keep the roots cool during hot weather. Organic mulches like wood chips or straw work well, and they’ll also improve soil quality as they break down over time.
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Avoid Overwatering: While canna lilies like moisture, be careful not to overwater them. Standing water in the soil can promote root rot and other diseases. If you’re planting them in containers, ensure there’s proper drainage, and don’t let water accumulate in the bottom of the pot.
5. Fertilizing Canna Lilies
Give your cannas a nutrient boost to encourage lush growth and vibrant blooms.
Canna lilies are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Here’s how to keep them well-fed throughout the growing season:
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Use Balanced Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 (NPK) formula, in the spring as the plants begin to grow. This will encourage healthy root development and robust foliage.
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Fertilizing During Growing Season: Once the plants are established, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer or a high-phosphorus fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to support the production of vibrant flowers. The higher phosphorus content helps promote blooming.
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Organic Options: If you prefer organic options, consider adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil, as these will provide a steady release of nutrients and improve soil health.
Pro Tip: Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season in fall or winter. During this time, the plants are resting, and over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
6. General Care and Maintenance
Canna lilies are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require some upkeep to look their best.
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Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to keep the plant looking neat and encourage more blooms throughout the growing season. Pinching off the dead flowers also helps the plant direct its energy into producing new growth.
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Staking Tall Cannas: Some taller varieties of canna lilies may need staking to prevent them from flopping over. Use bamboo stakes or plant supports to keep the plants upright, especially when they are in full bloom.
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Pruning: After flowering, you can cut back the spent stems and leaves to maintain the plant’s shape and appearance. However, always leave some of the foliage in place, as it helps nourish the tubers for the following year.
Canna Lilies: Care and Maintenance Tips
While canna lilies are relatively easy to grow, they still need some attention to thrive throughout the growing season. Here are some key care and maintenance tips:
1. Fertilizing Canna Lilies
Cannas are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring when the plants are just starting to grow. Throughout the growing season, you can feed them with a liquid fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks. Choose a fertilizer with a higher potassium ratio, as this promotes better flowering and overall plant health.
2. Pruning Canna Lilies
Pruning helps keep your canna lilies looking neat and encourages better blooming. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prevent the plant from putting energy into producing seeds, which can encourage more blooms. Cut back any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. You can also cut back the foliage at the end of the growing season to prepare the plant for winter.
3. Winter Care for Canna Lilies
In regions with cold winters, canna lilies are typically treated as annuals, but they can be overwintered if you want to save the tubers for the next season. To do this, follow these steps:
- Digging Up Tubers: Once the first frost hits, carefully dig up the tubers, being careful not to damage them. Shake off excess soil and allow them to dry for a few days in a cool, dry place.
- Storing Tubers: After drying, store the tubers in a box or paper bag filled with peat moss or sawdust. Keep the tubers in a cool (40–50°F), dry location such as a basement or garage.
- Replanting in Spring: In the spring, replant your tubers once the danger of frost has passed.
In milder climates, canna lilies can remain in the ground over winter. Simply mulch heavily around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.
Common Problems with Canna Lilies
While canna lilies are relatively low-maintenance, they can occasionally face some challenges. Here are a few common issues and how to address them:
1. Pests and Diseases
Cannas can attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. If you notice damage to the foliage, inspect your plants for these pests. To prevent an infestation, you can spray your plants with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and dish soap.
Another common issue is canna leaf roller larvae, which can cause the leaves to curl and become damaged. If you spot them, remove the affected leaves and destroy them to prevent further spread.
Fungal diseases, such as canna rust or botrytis blight, can also be problematic. To prevent these, ensure good air circulation around your plants, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected leaves promptly.
2. Yellowing Leaves
If the leaves of your canna lilies start turning yellow, it could be a sign of nutrient deficiency, poor soil drainage, or overwatering. Make sure your canna lilies are getting adequate nutrients through fertilization and that the soil is well-draining. Yellowing can also indicate a lack of iron, so you may want to use an iron supplement.
Canna Lilies: A Versatile Addition to Any Garden
Whether you’re looking to add a burst of color to your flower bed, enhance your tropical-themed garden, or simply enjoy their striking foliage and blooms, canna lilies are a fantastic plant choice. These beauties are adaptable to a variety of growing conditions and provide a tropical aesthetic without requiring excessive maintenance. From their vibrant blooms to their lush green (or variegated) foliage, canna lilies offer year-round visual interest and a touch of the exotic. So, why not give canna lilies a try in your garden? With a little care and attention, you can enjoy these stunning plants for many seasons to come.