Canna lily (Canna × generalis)

Canna lily

The garden canna lily is a perennial with large and colorful flowers. It is generally found growing in lakes and along roadsides. It’s often the Brazilian skipper’s larval host, but it also attracts other pollinators. Its common name comes from “Kanna” in Greek which means "reed-like."

Scientific classification

Species

Canna lily (Canna × generalis)

Gingers, bananas, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer

Harvest Time

1 m to 1.5 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Copper, Variegated, Brown

Leaf Color

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Distribution of Canna lily

Distribution Map

Canna lily enjoys a widespread presence across several continents, predominantly cultivated for its ornamental beauty. While its primary range remains undefined, this plant has been introduced to regions in Africa and Oceania. In certain areas where canna lily has been introduced, it is sometimes thought to be invasive, potentially influencing local ecosystems. Nonetheless, canna lily remains a popular choice in gardens and landscapes, valued for its attractive features.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed area, open ground or wetland, close to or even partially submerged in water

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Canna lily is valued as an ornamental thought to add a tropical texture to gardens where it is planted. Canna lily is often planted in groups within mixed garden borders. In addition, it can be planted in large, tall groups to create a privacy border for yards.

Symbolism

Appreciation, admiration, charm, passion, gratitude

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Canna lily, including the following common varieties :

Canna lilies 'Wyoming'Canna lilies 'Orange Beauty'Canna lilies 'Rosemond Coles'Canna lilies 'President'Canna lilies 'Firebird'Canna lilies 'Cannova Rose'Canna lily 'Orange Punch'Canna lily 'Toucan Yellow'Canna lilies 'Tropicanna Black'Canna × generalis 'Cannova Bronze Scarlet’Canna lily 'Australia'Canna lilies 'Chocolate Sunrise'Canna lilies 'Cannova Yellow'Canna lilies 'Musifolia'Canna lilies 'Red King Humbert'Canna lily 'Toucan Scarlet'Canna lily 'South Pacific Scarlet'

Care Guide for Canna lily

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Canna lily flourishes in moist, tropical conditions and prefers consistent hydration, tolerating brief dry spells. Water every 1-2 weeks, avoiding complete soil dryness. Cultivated outdoors, it requires more water during the growing season due to increased sunlight and temperatures.

Fertilize: Canna lily requires balanced nutrition fertilizers every 4-6 weeks for healthy growth, with increased bi-weekly applications of high phosphorus fertilizers during blooming. Always water thoroughly after feeding and reduce applications in winter. Safety precautions include wearing gloves and washing hands post-application.

Pruning: Canna lily thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring, focusing on dead or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes. Cutting stems to soil level post-flowering encourages new growth. Sharp, sterilized tools enhance health, ensuring air circulation and minimizing disease risk.

Propagation: Native to tropical and subtropical Americas, canna lily is a hardy perennial with vibrant foliage and large flowers. Propagation is best done by rhizome division, ensuring each section has at least one growth point. Plant divisions at the original depth and water thoroughly for establishment.

Repotting: Repot canna lily every 2-3 years in spring, using a container slightly larger than the previous one. This herbaceous perennial can grow up to 6 feet. Post-repotting, provide rich soil and consistent moisture, avoiding full sun until the plant stabilizes to ensure a thriving canna lily.

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