Tropical Red Canna
- **Type**: Tropical herbaceous perennial (grown as an annual in cooler climates)
- **Height**: 18 to 30 inches (45 to 75 cm)
- **Width**: 15 to 18 inches (38 to 45 cm)
- **Growth Habit**: Compact, upright, bushy, dwarf form
- **Foliage**:
- Broad, lance-shaped leaves, 12 to 18 inches long (30 to 45 cm)
- Bright green with a satin-like sheen
- Evergreen in frost-free zones; dies back in cold winters
- **Flowers**:
- Large, single, fiery orange-red to scarlet blooms
- 3 to 4 inches across (8 to 10 cm)
- Bloom season: Midsummer to frost (July to October/November), potentially year-round in subtropical climates
- No significant fragrance, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
- **Light**: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best flowering; tolerates partial shade
- **Soil**:
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter; tolerates moist to wet conditions
- Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0)
- **Watering**: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist soil, tolerates boggy areas
- **Hardiness**: USDA Zones 7 to 11 (0°F or -18°C; lift rhizomes in colder zones for winter storage)
- **Wildlife**: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; not deer-resistant
- **Care**:
- Plant rhizomes 2-3 inches deep, 18 inches apart, in spring after last frost
- Fertilize with a balanced mix (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring and midsummer
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage flowering; cut back to ground after frost in colder zones
- Store rhizomes in dry peat or sand at 45-50°F (7-10°C) over winter in zones below 7
- **Pests/Diseases**:
- Generally pest-resistant; may see canna leaf roller moth or slugs
- Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained, soggy soil
- **Uses**: Containers, borders, mass plantings, water gardens, or tropical accent
- **Growth Rate**: Fast; blooms in 90-100 days from seed or rhizome planting
- **Special Features**:
- Part of the Tropical series, bred for dwarf size and vibrant blooms from seed
- Heat and humidity tolerant, ideal for warm climates
- Rhizomes can be overwintered for perennial growth in colder regions
The Tropical Red Canna’s compact stature and bold red blooms make it a standout for adding a tropical punch to small gardens, containers, or wet areas, thriving in sun and heat with minimal fuss. Let me know if you’d like more care tips or planting ideas!