Plant Cannas for Tropical Flair: Bold Summer Focal Points

Bold-colored flowers and foliage make cannas the perfect summer focal point. Especially striking when planted en masse, but even one or two plants add a tropical touch.

Broad leaves—sometimes 6 inches across—topped with billowy flowers are showy next to pools and entryways, and fit comfortably in beds, borders, and pots.

Quick Facts

• Colors: Canna flowers in red, orange, yellow, pink, white, cream, or bicolors. Leaves may be green, bronze, or striped variations.
• Height: Most reach 4–6 ft tall; some smaller types half that height.
• Care: Cannas prefer full sun and regular water during growth and bloom.
• Planting: Plant in spring or summer for summer-to-fall bloom; choose loose, well-draining soil. Where soil freezes deeply, lift rhizomes and store over winter. Divide every 3–4 years.
• Great Companions: Cannas look great alongside agapanthus, palms, bananas, and ferns.