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Plant Profiles / Canna
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Canna
Canna × generalis · Canna lily
Tall, tropical plants with bold leaves and bright red, orange or yellow flowers all summer.
Full sunLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Thirsty.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
5–38°C (41–100°F)
CoolWarm
Light frost.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
1–1.5 m.
Soil
Rich mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Fortnightly
RarelyOften
Balanced.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.
About this plant
Native to the Americas. Grows from rhizomes; cut spent stems to the base.
Best spots
Sunny balconies and large pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Canna × generalis |
| Family | Cannaceae |
| Origin | Americas |
| Plant type | Rhizome |
| Mature size | 1–1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Flowers | Red, orange, yellow |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Cut back
Divide
FloweringCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Holes | Caterpillars. |
| Streaked leaves | Virus; discard. |
| Few flowers | Sun. |
| Crowded | Divide. |
| Snails | Bait. |
Common questions
Pets?
Safe.
Pots?
Large.
Divide?
Yes.
Sun?
Full.
