Originally from the West Indies and South America, cannas are one of the showiest summer bulbs you can grow. These lush tropical plants produce large sometimes colourful leaves, and tall flower stalks with vibrant blossoms.
Depending on the variety, cannas can grow a few feet tall to more than 10 feet tall. Dwarf varieties look great in large containers combined with petunias, sweet potato vines, and other low-growing annuals.
Larger varieties make a strong, elegant statement planted at the back of flower beds or grouped together in showy islands of colour.
Because they tolerate moist soils, cannas can also be planted along ponds or in a wet spot in the yard.
While typically grown as annuals in cooler regions, given the proper conditions, canna lilies can colour the garden year after year. They like plenty of heat, so place them in full sun. They can also tolerate partial shade.
Cannas like moist conditions too, but will tolerate nearly any well-draining soil that is either neutral or slightly acidic. They appreciate bog-like conditions as well. The soil should also be rich in organic matter.
When growing cannas in the garden, placing them in mixed borders or group plantings will offer the most dramatic effect.
Special features:
Ornamental use: Grown for their flowers and foliage offer long-lasting colour in the garden.