How to Grow Canna lily
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Canna lily
Canna × generalis
flowerCanna lilies are tropical perennial plants prized for their bold, dramatic foliage and vibrant flower spikes in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. They grow from rhizomes and can reach heights of 2-6 feet depending on variety, making them excellent for adding vertical interest and structure to gardens. These heat-loving plants thrive in warm climates and are commonly used in tropical, subtropical, and warm-season garden designs.
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Example Canna lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Canna lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Canna lily blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 7-11; can be grown in cooler zones as annuals or with winter protection
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Rhizome Dormancy
4-6 months (winter)Dormant rhizomes stored indoors during cold months, showing no visible growth
Store in cool, dry location (50-60°F) over winter in zones below 7. Check periodically for mold or rot and remove affected portions.
Sprouting & Early Growth
3-4 weeksShoots emerge from rhizomes as soil warms; leaves begin to unfurl
Plant after last frost when soil temperature reaches 60°F. Water well after planting. Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant develops large, glossy leaves on tall stems; plant reaches full height
Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced or slightly high-potassium fertilizer. Maintain consistent moisture. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (can extend through fall)Dense flower spikes emerge at stem tips in bold colors; multiple blooms develop sequentially
Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Stake tall varieties in windy locations if needed.
Dormancy Preparation
2-4 weeks before frostFlowering slows as temperatures cool; foliage begins to fade and stems die back
Reduce watering in late fall. After first frost, cut back dead foliage to ground level. In zones 7-8, dig rhizomes, clean, dry, and store indoors.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; apply kaolin clay as preventative
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Increase humidity by regular misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or sulfur sprays if severe
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Remove affected leaves; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis); use neem oil spray
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Remove debris and hiding spots; use slug traps or copper barriers; hand-pick at night
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Plant in well-draining, amended soil; practice crop rotation; remove infected plants
Uses
Edible rhizomes
CulinaryCanna rhizomes are edible and contain starch; some varieties produce a nutritious tuber used as a food source in tropical regions, similar to taro or cassava. [source]
Fresh cut flowers
HouseholdBold flower spikes make dramatic cut flower arrangements and are popular in tropical and modern floral designs. Flowers last 1-2 weeks in water. [source]
Ornamental garden design
CraftCannas provide bold foliage color, dramatic height, and tropical flair to gardens and containers. They are frequently used in bedding displays, borders, and focal points. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeCanna flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with their nectar and bright colors, making them valuable for pollinator gardens. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, canna rhizomes and leaves are used for their starch and anti-inflammatory properties, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cannas are grown for ornamental flowers and foliage, not for harvest. Cut flower spikes for fresh arrangements once several florets have opened. Cut at the base of the spike. Flowers last 1-2 weeks in a vase.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Canna lilies are not true lilies despite their common name; they belong to the family Cannaceae and are more closely related to bananas and gingers.
- 🌱 The name 'canna' comes from the Latin word for 'reed' or 'cane,' referring to the plant's tall, reed-like stems.
- 🌱 Canna flowers bloom sequentially from the bottom of the spike to the top, ensuring a long season of color as new florets continuously open over several weeks.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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