Canna iridiflora
Peruvian canna is a tall species with large, pendant pink flowers. It excels in warm, long-season climates with rich soil and regular water. Towering clumps make a bold backdrop in large borders. In cool summers it may not flower freely and benefits from wind shelter. Rhizomes must be protected from frost across most of North America.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species
- Height × spread: 8 to 13 ft (2.5 to 4 m) × 1.5 to 3 ft (0.5 to 1 m)
- Bloom window: midsummer to early fall
- Color & flower form: bright pink; large pendant tubular flowers
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 10 to 11; grown as annual or lifted in colder regions
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Much taller than typical garden cannas.
- Pendulous flowers rather than the usual erect blooms.
- Needs a longer, warmer season to flower well.
Strengths
- Striking height and architecture.
- Heat-loving in fertile, moist soils.
- Attracts hummingbirds in warm regions.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun; light shade in hottest inland sites.
- Soil: rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained; neutral to slightly acid.
- Water: keep evenly moist through summer.
- Feed: monthly balanced fertilizer during active growth.
- Overwinter: lift and store rhizomes above 40°F in colder zones.
Watch‑outs
- Not frost tolerant; lift rhizomes in cold zones.
- Sparse bloom in cool or short seasons.
- Tall stems can suffer wind damage if exposed.
Best uses (tags)
back-of-border, tropical backdrop, specimens, warm-climate gardens
Provenance note
Native to Peru and recorded by Kew; long used as a tall ornamental.
References
- RHS: Canna iridiflora
- Kew POWO: Canna iridiflora
- Naturalis Repository (Maas 2008): The Cannaceae of the World
- ASPCA: Canna Lily
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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