Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Cannas Plant for Your Landscape

Cannas are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a splash of color and tropical flair to their landscapes. These easy-to-grow plants have large, showy flowers that come in a range of colors, from bright reds and oranges to pastel pinks and yellows. When choosing a cannas plant for your landscape, it’s important to consider its size. Some cannas can grow up to 10 feet tall, while others stay compact and are perfect for smaller gardens or containers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Canna Plant

There are several factors to consider when choosing a cannas plant for your landscape:

Height

The height of the plant is one of the most important factors to consider. If you have a small garden, choose a cannas that stays compact and doesn’t grow too tall. If you have a larger garden with plenty of space, you can opt for taller varieties that will add height and drama to your landscape.

Spread

The spread of the plant is also important to consider. Some cannas spread outwards quickly and can take up a lot of space, while others stay more contained. Consider how much space you have available in your garden when choosing a cannas plant.

Flower Color

Cannas come in a wide range of flower colors, from bright reds and oranges to pastel pinks and yellows. Consider the overall color scheme of your garden when choosing a cannas plant. A bright red variety might clash with a garden that has a more muted color palette, while a pink or yellow variety might complement it perfectly.

Soil Type

Cannas prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay or doesn’t drain well, consider adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve drainage.

Choosing the Right Size Cannas Plant for Your Landscape

Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing a cannas plant, here are some recommendations for different sizes of gardens:

Small Gardens or Containers

If you have a small garden or want to grow cannas in containers, choose dwarf varieties such as ‘Tropicanna’ or ‘Tropicanna Gold’. These compact plants only grow to about 2-3 feet tall and have showy foliage in addition to their bright flowers.

Medium-Sized Gardens

For medium-sized gardens, choose varieties like ‘Wyoming’ or ‘Bengal Tiger’. These cannas grow to about 4-5 feet tall and have bold striped foliage in addition to their colorful blooms.

Large Gardens

If you have a large garden or want to create a dramatic focal point, choose tall varieties such as ‘Australia’ or ‘Pretoria’. These cannas can grow up to 10 feet tall and have large, showy flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Tips for Growing Cannas Plants

Here are some tips for growing healthy cannas plants:

• Plant cannas in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Water regularly during the growing season, but don’t let the soil get waterlogged.
• Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Divide clumps every two to three years to prevent overcrowding.
• Cut back foliage after the first frost in the fall.

FAQ

Q: Can I grow cannas in containers?

A: Yes! Dwarf varieties like ‘Tropicanna’ and ‘Tropicanna Gold’ are great choices for container gardens.

Q: How often should I water my cannas plants?

A: Water regularly during the growing season, but don’t let the soil get waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.

Q: Do cannas need full sun or partial shade?

A: Cannas prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. However, they will produce fewer flowers in shady locations.

Q: Can I grow cannas indoors?

A: Cannas are tropical plants that require full sun and warm temperatures to thrive, so they are not well-suited for indoor growing.