Canna Lily
Family (Latin): Cannaceae
A brief introduction
Canna lilies are bold, tropical-looking plants admired for their large, banana-like leaves and vibrant, showy flowers. Despite their name, they are not true lilies. Native to the Americas, cannas bring a lush, exotic feel to gardens, patios, and containers. Their blooms appear in striking shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and even bi-colored combinations.
Popular varieties
¨¨Tropicanna: Famous for its multicolored striped foliage and orange flowers.
Lucifer: Compact with brilliant red blooms edged in yellow.
Pretoria's: Known for its striking variegated leaves and orange flowers.
~ Symbolic meaning ~
Canna lilies symbolize confidence, beauty, and passion. Their dramatic presence often represents boldness and vitality.
Plant care
Soil
Cannas thrive in rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. They prefer fertile soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Light
Full sun is ideal. Cannas need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce abundant flowers and strong foliage.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Cannas are thirsty plants, especially during hot weather. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Care
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Winter Care: In colder climates, lift and store rhizomes indoors before frost. Spacing: Provide room for airflow, as plants can grow large and dense.
Good for pollinators:
Toxic to pets:
Fragrant:
Care difficulty: Easy
Did you know?
Canna lilies grow from rhizomes, not bulbs. In warm climates, they can grow several meters tall and bloom continuously from summer until frost. Their lush leaves are just as decorative as their flowers.