The frost-sensitive tubers are planted in spring and quickly grow into impressive 3 to 8-foot plants. Because they tolerate moist soils, cannas are ideal for rain gardens and are also well suited to planting near ponds or pools. Cannas grow well in containers, either planted on their own or combined with colorful annuals.

It’s easy to see the difference in quality when you compare two cannas side by side. Canna lily rhizomes are graded by the number of “eyes” or growth points they display. A plump rhizome (on the right) with 3 to 5 eyes will produce a larger plant with a better display of color than a smaller rhizome (on the left) with fewer eyes.

Cannas are easy to grow. Here’s how to get them off to a great start.

SHADE AND SUN: Cannas will grow in full sun or partial shade.

ZONE: Cannas are winter hardy in zones 9-10. In cooler zones they can be grown as annuals or the roots can be dug up in the fall and stored indoors for replanting the next spring. Reference the USDA Hardiness zone map HERE.

WHEN TO PLANT: Cannas are sensitive to cold temperatures, so they should be planted in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. To get your cannas off to an early start, plant the rhizomes in pots indoors about a month before you will be planting them in the garden.

WHERE TO PLANT CANNA LILIES

FLOWER BEDS AND BORDERS: Cannas come on strong in late summer and fall when most annuals and perennials are starting to fade. Their bold foliage and brilliantly colored flower spikes keep gardens looking great right until frost.

CONTAINERS: A canna can turn a ho-hum pot or planter into a living work of art. Before planting, make sure the container is big enough to hold a large, thirsty canna with a vigorous root system. Dwarf cannas are a good choice for containers.

1. Dig a hole 2 to 3” deep.
2. Set the canna rhizome into the hole with the growing tips facing up.
3. Cover with soil and water as needed.

PLANTING TIPS FOR CANNA LILIES

Cannas are heat-loving plants and they won't grow in cold soil. The rhizomes can be planted as soon as all danger of frost has passed, but it’s best to wait and plant them once the soil has warmed to at least 65°F.

Cannas thrive in hot, humid weather. They are thirsty plants and need a consistent supply of water throughout the growing season.

In warm areas, cannas grow well in full sun or in partial shade. In cooler areas, they grow best in full sun.

Rhizomes should be planted horizontally, 2 to 3” deep and 1 to 2 feet apart. After planting, it may take 2 weeks or more for the first shoots to appear. Once that happens, the plants will grow quickly.

During the growing season, cannas appreciate a monthly dose of liquid fertilizer. This is especially true when they are grown in containers.

Cannas are at their best in late summer and fall and will continue growing until killed by cold weather or frost. At this point you have a choice: either discard the plants as you would other annuals or dig up the rhizomes and store them indoors for replanting next spring.

To dig up the rhizomes, you will need a shovel, a tarp, and a sharp knife. Start by cutting the stalks to within 4” of the soil line. Next, carefully dig up the entire root mass, which may be as much as 18” in diameter. Lift out the root ball and place it on the tarp. If you are growing several different varieties of cannas, this is a good time to label them. Allow the root balls to dry out for a few days, moving them to a sheltered location if there is danger of frost.

If possible, keep the root balls intact for the winter. Waiting until spring to separate the rhizomes will minimize damage and decay. Wrap the roots in damp burlap or put them into a large plastic bag (keeping the top open). Store in a cool (45-50°F), dark place where there is enough humidity to keep the rhizomes hydrated. Check the roots periodically during the winter months to make sure they are not too moist (rotting) or too dry (becoming shriveled). Adjust accordingly.

In the spring, gently pull the rhizomes apart and replant the largest, healthiest ones.