perennialN. America Native

Tropicanna Canna Lily

Canna x generalis 'Phasion'

The Story

Plant Bio

Canna x generalis 'Phasion' is known for its large, ornamental leaves and vibrant flowers that exhibit a unique multicolor pattern.

This cultivar is particularly notable for its striking, variegated foliage featuring bold stripes.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant foliage and striking flowers add tropical appeal and color to gardens and containers.
Practical UsesProvides quick height and visual impact with minimal maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies attracted to its bright flowers.
SpeciesCanna x generalisCanna

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

60 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial in zones 8-11, treat as annual elsewhere

Native To

Tropical Americas

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
  3. Mist foliage regularly during hot, dry weather to keep leaves healthy.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
  5. Pinch back flower stalks to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
  6. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant canna rhizomes 4-6 inches deep in rich, well-draining soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
  • Apply fertilizer monthly during the growing season
  • Provide full sun for vibrant foliage and blooms
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

  • Don’t overwater to prevent rhizome rot ❌
  • Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without amendments
  • Don’t forget to lift and store rhizomes in colder zones during winter
  • Avoid excessive fertilization which can lead to lush but weak growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical flower borderColorful container displayVivid garden focal point

Companion Plants

Elephant Ears Hostas Caladiums Tropical Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tropicanna Canna Lily questions

What zones can Tropicanna Canna Lily grow in?

Tropicanna Canna Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tropicanna Canna Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Tropicanna Canna Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tropicanna Canna Lily bloom?

Tropicanna Canna Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tropicanna Canna Lily need full sun?

Tropicanna Canna Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Tropicanna Canna Lily with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.