Canna

The Canna Lily, Canna x generalis, is certainly one of the most colorful summer bulbs, and a favorite of many gardeners. They not only attract hummingbirds, but provide long-lasting and beautiful red, yellow or orange flowers all summer long. The dramatic foliage can be in shades of green, bronze or variegated stripes. Its tropical-like foliage and stunning flowers are similar to the iris. You can enjoy their blooms from late spring or early summer to frost.

Canna lilies are rhizomatous perennials that are easy to care for when given the proper conditions. The canna is grown as an annual in cooler regions, but can color your garden year after year. In colder climates it is necessary to dig up and store canna rhizomes in the fall, and then replant them again in the spring. If the cannas have been grown in containers, they can be stored in their containers in winter.

Plant cannas in full sun, with moist, well-drained soil; amend with rich organic matter. It is important to keep the soil moist; monthly fertilizer is also required. These plants offer a very dramatic and magnificent effect, especially when planted in masses. If you have a small garden, there are lovely dwarf cannas that are under 3 feet tall. Other types of cannas grow from 4 to 6 feet tall. If you want to add a bold, tropical look to your garden, the canna lily would be a great choice.