Canna Lily

Canna × generalis is the name used for garden canna hybrids, a group grown for bold foliage and colorful flowers. Cultivars differ in mature size, so the hybrid name does not identify one particular height or color form. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/canna-x-generalis/) recognizes Canna × generalis as garden hybrids. ## Garden Use Use garden cannas as upright accents or in groups where their foliage can add height and texture. NC State lists the group at 2–6 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide. The [Kwantlen Polytechnic University plant database](https://plantdatabase.kpu.ca/PlantPrint/cage) gives a different mature range of 0.7–1.3 m tall by 1.0–1.5 m wide, illustrating variation across references and cultivars. ## Siting and Soil Provide warmth, full sun to light shade, and moist, well-drained soil with organic matter. A sheltered location helps protect the large leaves from wind. The displayed width range spans the two published ranges, about 1–4.9 feet. The existing 2 m height point exceeds the cited maxima, so no single height point is retained; the catalog label follows the NC State group range. ## Maintenance Cannas are tender in cold winters. After frost, cut down top growth; in colder areas, lift and store rhizomes in a cool, dry place, then replant after the last spring frost. Follow [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/canna-x-generalis/) and the [RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/canna/growing-guide).