How to Grow Canna Lily 'Tropicanna'
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Canna Lily 'Tropicanna'
Canna × generalis 'Tropicanna'
flowerTropicanna is a stunning tropical perennial with vibrant orange-red flowers and dramatic striped foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow. This cultivar is prized for its bold ornamental presence in gardens, providing both eye-catching flowers and striking variegated foliage that adds tropical flair to any landscape. It grows from rhizomes and reaches 4-6 feet tall, making it an excellent focal point plant.
When should you plant Canna Lily 'Tropicanna' in your zone?
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Example Canna Lily 'Tropicanna' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Canna Lily 'Tropicanna'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Canna Lily 'Tropicanna' blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7b-11; grows as a perennial in warm climates, treated as an annual or lifted in colder zones
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Dormancy & Planting
2-4 weeksRhizomes are planted in spring after last frost; soil is kept cool and moist
Plant rhizomes after soil warms to at least 60°F. Pre-soak rhizomes for a few hours before planting to encourage sprouting. Ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Emergence & Growth
3-4 weeksShoots emerge from soil and first leaves unfold, revealing the striped foliage pattern
Maintain consistent moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) monthly. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Development
4-6 weeksPlant grows vigorously, developing multiple stems with larger variegated leaves in red, orange, and yellow stripes
Continue regular feeding with balanced or slightly higher potassium fertilizer to encourage flowering. Remove any all-green reverts or less vibrant shoots. Water consistently.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (summer through early fall)Tall spikes of bright orange-red flowers emerge above the foliage; blooms are tubular and clustered in candle-like inflorescences
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with low-nitrogen formulation (higher phosphorus and potassium) to support flowering. Maintain moisture.
Dormancy Preparation
Variable, 4-6 weeks before killing frostFlowers diminish as temperatures drop in fall; foliage begins to yellow and brown
In zones 7-9, cut back plant to 2-3 inches above ground after first frost. Dig and store rhizomes in cool (50-60°F), dry location packed in peat moss or sand. In zones 10-11, reduce watering and allow partial dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to increase humidity; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Ensure good air circulation.
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Manually remove affected leaves; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray or spinosad for severe infestations.
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Hand-pick early morning; use beetle traps away from plants; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; plant in raised beds if in wet climates; remove and destroy infected rhizomes; apply fungicide if needed.
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and
Remove debris where they hide; use beer traps; apply diatomaceous earth; hand-pick at dusk.
Uses
Edible Rhizomes
CulinaryCanna rhizomes are nutritious starchy tubers that can be cooked and eaten like potatoes or arrowroot, particularly in tropical and subtropical cuisines. The tubers contain high levels of carbohydrates and have been cultivated as a food crop in some regions. [source]
Ornamental Focal Point & Tropical Landscaping
HouseholdTropicanna is prized as an ornamental specimen plant for borders, containers, poolside plantings, and tropical-themed gardens. The dramatic striped foliage and vibrant flowers provide bold color and architectural structure. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe bright red-orange flowers attract hummingbirds and bees, making Tropicanna an excellent choice for gardens designed to support pollinators and provide nectar sources throughout summer and fall. [source]
Cut Flowers & Tropical Arrangements
CraftBoth the striking leaves and flower spikes are used in tropical floral arrangements and bold cut-flower displays, adding drama and exotic color to interior decorations. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, canna leaves and rhizomes have been used to address inflammation and support digestive health, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Canna lilies are ornamental plants, not typically harvested for food. Cut flowers last 1-2 days in arrangements. For foliage displays, cut stems at any time during growing season. Harvest rhizomes in fall after foliage dies back; dig carefully, clean off soil, and store in cool, dry conditions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Tropicanna's variegated foliage can occasionally revert to solid green shoots—removing these reverts promptly helps maintain the plant's signature striped appearance and vibrant color.
- 🌱 Canna lilies are not true lilies (Lilium family) but are members of the Cannaceae family; they were named 'lilies' by early European gardeners who were unfamiliar with their true identity.
- 🌱 Tropicanna was originally developed in New Zealand and is a hybrid cultivar bred specifically for its ornamental foliage and flowers; it represents decades of horticulultural selection for dramatic visual impact.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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