Canna Lily

Canna × generalis

Despite the name, cannas are NOT lilies — they're more closely related to bananas and gingers. The 'lily' label persists because the showy three-petaled flower resembles true lilies superficially, but the plant family is entirely different.

Design with canna lily Find companion plants

Save this plant

USDA Zones

7-10 (lift rhizomes in colder zones)

Sun

full sun

Water

high

Mature Size

3-8 ft tall (cultivar-dependent)

Growth Rate

fast

Family

Cannaceae

Care guide

How to care for canna lily

Plant rhizomes after frost, 4-6 in deep, eyes up. Cut to the ground after first hard frost; dig and store rhizomes in barely-moist peat at 40-50°F. Foliage cultivars ('Tropicanna', 'Pretoria') with striped leaves carry the plant when not in bloom.

Garden uses & design ideas

Best garden use

Use canna lily as a bold summer screen behind lower annuals or beside a sunny patio, where large leaves and hot-colored flowers give a tropical feel quickly.

Pair it with

Dahlia, Elephant ear, Tropical hibiscus make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.

Layout tip

Match it with full sun exposure, keep it in the same moist-bed zone as other thirsty plants, and check USDA zones 7-10 (lift rhizomes in colder zones) before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 3-8 ft tall (cultivar-dependent). Regional note: In cold zones, lift and store rhizomes after frost; in warm wet climates, divide clumps so they do not overwhelm smaller planting beds.

Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas. Regional note: In cold zones, lift and store rhizomes after frost; in warm wet climates, divide clumps so they do not overwhelm smaller planting beds. Safety note: Leaves can be slippery when cut down and rhizomes are heavy; clean up frost-killed foliage promptly around walkways and patios.

Companion plants

Canna Lily grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.

Dahlia Elephant earTropical hibiscus

Common pests & problems

canna leaf rollersJapanese beetles

Where it grows best

Native to Tropical Americas; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-10 (lift rhizomes in colder zones).

Zone 7 guide →USDA map →

Frequently asked about canna lily

What USDA zones does Canna Lily grow in?+

Canna Lily is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 (lift rhizomes in colder zones). Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.

How much sun does Canna Lily need?+

Canna Lily prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.

How often should I water Canna Lily?+

Canna Lily has high water needs. Water frequently — this plant prefers reliably moist soil. Plant rhizomes after frost, 4-6 in deep, eyes up. Cut to the ground after first hard frost; dig and store rhizomes in barely-moist peat at 40-50°F. Foliage cultivars ('Tropicanna', 'Pretoria') with striped leaves carry the plant when not in bloom.

How big does Canna Lily get?+

Canna Lily reaches a mature size of 3-8 ft tall (cultivar-dependent). Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.

What plants grow well with Canna Lily?+

Canna Lily pairs well with Dahlia, Elephant ear, Tropical hibiscus. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.

What pests affect Canna Lily?+

Common Canna Lily problems include canna leaf rollers; Japanese beetles. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.

When does Canna Lily bloom?+

Canna Lily blooms in midsummer to first frost in red, orange, yellow, pink, bicolour. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.