How to Care for a Red Canna

A tropical native of Asia and South America, the Canna (Cannaceae family) is a tall (3 to 8 feet) plant with large leaves that look very much like those of the banana plant. Atop the sturdy stems are 4 to 5-inch flowers that may be red, yellow, pink or orange. The Red Canna, of which "The President" is a vibrant red variety, is considered an annual plant except in zones 8 to 10, where it is considered a perennial. These tropical flowers require full sun and fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Cannas grow from rhizomes and are planted similarly to bulbs which, in the fall in cooler climates, can be dug up and stored over the winter and replanted again come spring. Red Cannas are stunning when planted in groups.

Trowel
Canna rhizomes
Water
Peat moss
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Plant red canna rhizomes in the spring after danger of frost is passed. Choose a site with full sun and well-drained soil. Dig a hole about 2 to 4 inches deep. Place the rhizome in the hole, spreading the roots and making sure the "eyes" or buds are facing up.
- 2
  Space rhizomes 1 to 2 feet apart if you're planting in groups. Cover the rhizomes with soil and gently compact the dirt.
- 3
  Water thoroughly. Red cannas require moist soil, so water regularly, making sure the soil is wet but not soggy.
- 4
  Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms by clipping the flowers just below the flowerheads.
- 5
  Dig up the rhizomes in the fall after the first frost in regions north of zone 8. Place them in a bag with moistened peat moss and store in a cool place. The rhizomes can then be replanted come spring.
- 6
  Trim the cannas down to the ground and keep the rhizomes in the ground over winter in zones 8 to 10, but place a layer of mulch, grass clippings or pine needles over the rhizomes.

How to Prune Gerbera Daisy Flowers

How to Gather Vinca Seed

Growing Annuals