Bold paddle-shaped leaves, often bronze or striped, topped by vivid tropical flowers all summer. Lush and fast in warmth, but the rhizomes can become invasive near waterways.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 1.8 m H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Canna Lily
Botanically, Canna indica is a fast-growing bulb in the Cannaceae family. It reaches around 1.8 m tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous, purple-toned and variegated foliage. Red, orange and yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Canna Lily
Canna Lily suits subtropical, tropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Canna Lily provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Canna Lily is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Canna Lily after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Canna Lily in the garden
Canna Lily earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Canna Lily with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Canna Lily
Plant Sale lists Canna Lily as bulbs. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.