Canna

Canna Plants – Best In New Zealand!

Growing flowering plants such as Canna Lilies delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• They produce beautiful flowers in a wide range of colours.
• Canna flowers have a long vase life, making them a popular choice for cut flowers.
• They are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of climates.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• They bring colour and vibrance to a space.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have many Canna Lily varieties for sale and ready for their new home. Our Red Canna and Tropicana Canna are stunning. These locally grown plants that have been propagated and bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Canna plants, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Canna Questions

1. When should I buy canna plants?

The best time to buy canna plants depends on your climate. In cold climates with heavy frost, you would generally plant them in spring to avoid risk of damage. However, in milder climates they can be purchased and planted anytime.

2. Are cannas hard to grow?

Canna plants are generally considered to be easy to grow, even for novice gardeners. They are adaptable to a wide range of climates and can tolerate a wide variety of soil conditions and issues:

• They are tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including clay, loam, and sand.
• They can grow in full sun or partial shade.
• They are relatively drought tolerant.
• They are not susceptible to many pests and diseases.
• They are easy to propagate from rhizomes.

Here are some tips for growing canna plants:

• Choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
• Add compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
• Plant the rhizomes with the eyes (buds) facing upwards and 2-3 inches (50-75 mm) deep.
• Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize the plants every few weeks during the growing season.
• Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.

With these simple tips, you can enjoy the beauty and ease of growing canna plants in your garden.

3. What is the prettiest canna?

Determining the prettiest canna is subjective and depends on personal preferences, but some of the most popular and widely admired canna varieties for their stunning blooms and vibrant colors include:

1. Canna 'Pretoria': This cultivar features large, showy flowers with ruffled petals in shades of orange, red, and yellow.
2. Canna 'Tropicana': Known for its large, bright orange blooms, 'Tropicana' adds a bold splash of color to any garden.
3. Canna 'Pink Floyd': This variety boasts delicate pink flowers with ruffled edges and a soft, romantic charm.
4. Canna 'Yellow King Humbert': With its large, vibrant yellow blooms, 'Yellow King Humbert' brings a cheerful and sunny disposition to the garden.
5. Canna 'Lucifer': This dramatic cultivar features deep red flowers with black accents, creating a striking and sophisticated look.
6. Canna 'Pretoria Red': A stunning red variety with large, showy flowers that make a bold statement in the garden.
7. Canna 'Apricot Dream': This unique cultivar features soft apricot-colored flowers with ruffled edges, adding a touch of elegance and refinement.
8. Canna 'South Pacific': This vibrant variety showcases a blend of orange, red, and yellow flowers, creating a tropical and spirited atmosphere.
9. Canna 'Taras Bulba': With its large, deep red flowers and dark green foliage, 'Taras Bulba' exudes a bold and dramatic presence.
10. Canna 'Durban': This striking cultivar features large, orange-red flowers with a dark red blotch in the center, creating a captivating visual effect.

These are just a few examples of the many beautiful canna varieties available, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Ultimately, the prettiest canna is the one that speaks to your personal aesthetic and brings joy to your garden.

4. Do canna lilies come back every year?

Whether or not canna lilies come back every year depends on the climate in which they are grown. In warm climates with mild winters, canna lilies can be grown as perennials. This means that the plants will return year after year from their storage roots. However, in cooler climates with more severe winters, canna lilies are typically grown as annuals as severe temperatures can kill the roots.

5. Are cannas poisonous to dogs?

Canna lilies are not considered poisonous to dogs. In fact, they are listed as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). This means that it is unlikely that your dog will experience any serious health problems if they ingest any part of the canna lily plant.

6. What are some fun facts about canna lilies?

Here are some fun facts about canna lilies:

1. Canna lilies are not true lilies. Despite their name, canna lilies are not members of the lily family (Liliaceae). They belong to the plant family Cannaceae, which is related to bananas, gingers, and birds of paradise.
2. Canna lilies are native to tropical America. Canna lilies originated in the tropical regions of Central and South America, where they thrive in warm, humid climates.
3. Canna lilies were cultivated centuries ago. The cultivation of canna lilies dates back to pre-Columbian times, with evidence suggesting they were grown by indigenous peoples for their edible rhizomes and medicinal properties.
4. Canna lilies are named after the Latin word for "cane" or "reed." The name "canna" is derived from the Latin word "canna," which refers to the plant's reed-like stems.
5. Canna lilies come in a wide range of colors. Canna lilies are known for their vibrant and diverse flower colors, ranging from reds, oranges, and yellows to pinks, whites, and purples.
6. Canna lilies are not just for show. Canna lilies offer more than just beautiful flowers. Their rhizomes are edible and can be used as a source of starch, while their leaves can be used as fodder for cattle.
7. Canna lilies can be used to purify the air. Canna lilies are considered air-purifying plants, as they can help to remove harmful toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene.
8. Canna lilies are a symbol of royalty. In some cultures, canna lilies are associated with royalty and prestige, and they are often used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations.
9. Canna lilies can attract pollinators. Canna lilies are attractive to pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies, making them beneficial additions to pollinator-friendly gardens.
10. Canna lilies are easy to grow. Canna lilies are relatively easy to care for, making them a popular choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.

These fun facts highlight the fascinating history, diversity, and versatility of canna lilies, making them a truly remarkable and enjoyable addition to gardens and homes.

7. What causes cannas to not bloom?

There are several possible reasons why your canna lilies may not be flowering. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Insufficient light: Canna lilies need full sun to partial shade to bloom properly. If they are not getting enough light, they may not produce flowers.
2. Improper watering: Canna lilies need to be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. However, overwatering can also cause problems, as it can lead to root rot.
3. Nutrient deficiencies: Canna lilies need to be fertilized regularly during the growing season to produce healthy blooms. If they are not getting enough nutrients, they may not flower.
4. Pests and diseases: Canna lilies can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases. These problems can weaken the plants and prevent them from blooming.
5. Poor soil drainage: Canna lilies need well-drained soil to thrive. If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, it can hold too much water and cause root rot.
6. Too young: Canna lilies from seed may take several years to reach maturity and bloom.
7. Overcrowding: If canna lilies are planted too close together, they may not have enough space to grow and bloom properly.
8. Rhizomes planted too deep: Canna lily rhizomes should be planted 2-3 inches deep. Planting them too deep can prevent them from sprouting properly.
9. Late planting: If canna lilies are planted too late in the season, they may not have enough time to bloom before the first frost.
10. Dormancy: Canna lilies in cooler climates may go dormant in the winter and not bloom again until the following spring.

8. Can cannas change colour?

Canna lilies can change colour to a limited extent. The exact shade of the flower can vary depending on the cultivar, the growing conditions, and the time of year.

• Cultivar: Different cultivars of canna lilies naturally produce different shades of flowers. Some of the most popular cultivars include 'Pretoria' (orange), 'Tropicana' (bright orange), 'Pink Floyd' (delicate pink), 'Yellow King Humbert' (large, vibrant yellow), and 'Lucifer' (dramatic red with black accents).
• Growing conditions: The growing conditions can also affect the color of canna lilies. For example, plants that receive more sunlight tend to have brighter colors, while plants grown in shade may have paler blooms. Additionally, the amount of water and fertilizer the plants receive can also influence their coloration.
• Time of year: The time of year can also impact the colour of canna lilies. As the flowers mature, their colour may deepen or change slightly. For instance, some cultivars may develop darker accents or speckles as they age.

9. Do you have to dig up canna lily bulbs every year?

In New Zealand, you don't have to dig up canna lily bulbs every year unless you have specific reasons to do so.

Reasons to dig up canna lily bulbs:

• To contain the plants: Canna lilies multiply rapidly, and digging them up every 3-5 years allows you to divide the clumps and replant them in new locations. This helps prevent overcrowding, promotes healthy growth, and encourages more flowering.
• Protecting from harsh winters: In areas with colder winters, digging up canna lily bulbs and storing them indoors over winter can protect them from frost damage.
• Controlling pests and diseases: Digging up canna lily bulbs allows you to inspect them for any pests or diseases and take necessary measures to control them before replanting.

Reasons to leave canna lily bulbs in the ground:

• Convenience: Leaving canna lily bulbs in the ground saves you time and effort compared to digging them up and storing them.
• Hardiness: Many canna lily varieties are hardy and can tolerate NZ’s winters.
• Earlier flowering: Leaving canna lily bulbs in the ground allows them to establish a strong root system, leading to earlier and more prolific flowering in the following season.

10. Do canna lilies have invasive roots?

Cannas are not inherently invasive, but some species and cultivars can display invasive characteristics, depending on the environment they are planted in:

Invasive potential:

• Canna indica: This species, commonly known as "Indian Shot," is considered invasive in many regions, including parts of Australia, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands. It forms large, dense clumps that displace native vegetation and can disrupt ecosystems.
• Canna hybrids: Certain hybrid varieties of Canna can also be invasive, especially in areas with warm, humid climates and moist soil. They spread readily through rhizomes and can quickly outcompete other plants.

Non-invasive Cannas:

• Canna glauca: This species, known as "Water Canna," is generally considered non-invasive. It prefers wet environments and is less likely to spread aggressively in drier conditions.
• Canna x generalis: This hybrid variety is also non-invasive and well-behaved in most gardens. It forms smaller clumps and does not spread as readily as some other Cannas.