Exploring the Diversity of Canna Lily Varieties

Canna lilies are a beloved flower known for their vibrant colors and tropical flair. With dozens of varieties to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the perfect ones for your garden. In this extensive guide we’ll explore the wide range of canna lily types available and provide tips for choosing the best ones to brighten your yard.

A Brief Background on Canna Lilies

Although commonly called “canna lilies” these striking plants are not true lilies at all. Rather, they belong to the Cannaceae family along with plants like bananas and arrowroot. There are 10 different species within the Canna genus but most of the varieties grown ornamentally are hybrids of the common garden canna, Canna x generalis.

Canna lilies are herbaceous perennials with large, banana-like leaves They form rhizomatous root structures that can be overwintered in zones 8 and above In colder climates, the rhizomes must be dug up and stored indoors over winter. The real draw of these plants lies in their vibrant, exotic blooms which sit atop tall stems reaching anywhere from 2 to 8 feet tall depending on the variety.

Now let’s explore some of the many diverse Canna lily cultivars available!

Compact/Dwarf Varieties

For those with limited space, compact Canna varieties are ideal. Growing no taller than 3 feet, these short yet showy plants are perfect for containers on patios and in smaller garden beds.

Some top picks include:

• Canna ‘Apricot Dream’ – Delicate apricot colored blooms from midsummer to fall on plants reaching 2 to 3 feet tall.

• Canna ‘Happy Cleo’ – Vibrant orange flowers with golden undertones on petite plants around 1 to 2 feet tall.

• Canna ‘Happy Emily’ – Cheery yellow blooms speckled with orange on plants typically staying under 2 feet tall.

• Canna ‘Picasso’ – Unique yellow flowers spotted with red on 2 to 3 foot plants.

Midsize Varieties

The midsize Canna lily varieties tend to reach between 3 and 5 feet tall. These make great focal points for borders or planting beds.

Some recommended midsize choices include:

• Canna ‘Crimson Beauty’ – Dark crimson blooms compliment the green foliage. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall.

• Canna ‘Eureka’ – Pale yellow flowers that fade to ivory speckled with red dots. Gets 4 to 6 feet tall.

• Canna ‘Pink President’ – Vibrant pink blooms on plants that can reach 4 to 5 feet.

• Canna ‘Richard Wallace’ – Pale yellow flowers spotted with red on 4 foot plants.

Tall Varieties

For tropical drama in the garden, go big with taller Canna lily varieties that tower over 6 feet tall! These bold plants act as thrilling focal points.

Some splendid tall choices:

• Canna ‘Musifolia’ – Huge 6 to 8 foot plants with enormous ruby red blooms.

• Canna ‘Red King Humbert’ – Iconic bright red flowers on regal plants up to 8 feet tall.

• Canna ‘The President’ – Vibrant red flowers on 6 foot tall plants.

• Canna ‘Tropicanna’ – Gorgeous orange blooms on towering 8 foot stems.

Unique Color Varieties

While many Canna lilies sport the ubiquitous red, orange, pink, or yellow, some varieties offer uniquely vibrant shades.

• Canna ‘Australia’ – Scarlet-red flowers so dark they appear nearly black.

• Canna ‘Carol’s Yellow’ – Soft yellow flowers fade to cream with faint salmon speckles.

• Canna ‘Pink Futurity’ – Shocking neon pink flowers stand out against deep burgundy leaves.

• Canna ‘Pretoria’ – Blooms open yellow then transition to peachy-orange and finally fade to soft pink!

Bicolored Varieties

For extra pops of color, look for Canna lily varieties with bicolor blooms. These often combine shades of red, yellow, orange, and pink for exciting contrast.

Some bicolored types to try:

• Canna ‘Cleopatra’ – Unpredictable blooms may be solid yellow with red spots, solid red, or a mix of both colors.

• Canna ‘Intrigue’ – Dramatic blooms blend red, yellow, and orange.

• Canna ‘Stuttgart’ – Rare orange and yellow flowers on plants with bold variegated leaves.

• Canna ‘Yellow King Humbert’ – Huge yellow flowers with red speckling.

Specialty Leaf Varieties

While most Canna lilies have green leaves, some varieties offer uniquely colored or variegated foliage for added interest.

• Canna ‘Australia’ – Very dark burgundy, nearly black foliage.

• Canna ‘Black Knight’ – Deep purple to black leaves make the red flowers pop.

• Canna ‘Red King Humbert’ – Bronze-red leaves transition from green.

• Canna ‘Stuttgart’ – Leaves have bold white stripes adding dimension.

• Canna ‘Tickled Pink’ – Pink mottled leaves pair beautifully with the flowers.

Growing Tips

• Plant rhizomes in rich soil in full sun after all danger of frost has passed. Space 18 to 24 inches apart.

• Water thoroughly and regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Add mulch to help retain moisture.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly and prune spent blooms to encourage new growth and flowering.

• In zones 8+, leave plants in ground over winter. In colder climates, dig and store rhizomes indoors.

With their vibrant, tropical appeal and diversity of flower forms, colors, and plant sizes, Canna lilies offer limitless options for gardens big and small. Follow this guide to key varieties and growing tips to help you discover new Canna lily cultivars to enhance your yard with vibrant color.