Canna lilies boast large, showy, ornamental blooms with lush foliage. These banana-shaped leaves and vibrant blooms resemble those of irises, but with a little more exotic flair and tropical texture. From pale-yellow, to blood-red, and everything in between, canna lilies are sure to brighten up any flower bed or container garden.

Though native to the tropics, canna lilies have been hybridized for centuries in more temperate climates and thus can be planted successfully just about anywhere. Establish your canna lilies in a sunny to partially shaded spot in spring, and expect a big blast of color and lush tropical foliage come summer! Canna lilies are perfect for beds and borders.

Depending on the variety, canna lilies can grow from 16 inches to 10 feet in height. These tropical, gentle giants are low maintenance and easy to grow. In frost-free zones canna lily bulbs can be planted any time. If planting in the north, start your bulbs indoors about six weeks before your last frost in pots of good, rich, well-draining potting soil. Keep the pots in a sunny place and water frequently. Canna lilies can also be planted directly into the ground after the last frost, but they may be slower to bloom.

Dig holes that are approximately four to six inches deep. Space the bulbs about two feet apart for taller varieties, and one foot apart for smaller cultivars. Add a little peat moss and perlite to your planting site. Place the bulb in the hole, foliage side up and backfill the hole with additional soil until the bulb and roots are well-covered. Gently pat down the dirt around the base and water thoroughly.

Once established, canna lilies need to be kept moist. Fertilizing monthly with a fertilizer high in phosphate will aid in continuous blooming. Cover the base of plants with mulch or straw during frost, if necessary. In zones where the ground freezes hard, you may dig up and air dry the plants in the fall. Store them in a cool, dry place.