in bloom
now
through Oct
Bloom calendar
Canna musifolia
Foliage cultivar in trade; taxonomy varies
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Foliage cultivar in trade; taxonomy varies
- Height × spread: 8 to 12 ft (2.4 to 3.7 m) × 3 to 5 ft (0.9 to 1.5 m) (varies by climate)
- Bloom window: summer; sparse in cool climates
- Color & flower form: small orange to red; foliage is the main feature
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 8 to 11; grown as annual in colder regions
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Massive, banana-like leaves create a bold, architectural effect.
- Taller and leafier than many garden hybrids.
- Often listed as ‘Musifolia’ in catalogs; taxonomy varies by source.
Strengths
- Outstanding foliar impact and rapid summer growth.
- Useful near water features and as a seasonal screen.
- Performs well with heat and moisture.
Care in one minute
Site: full sun; bright open shade in the hottest climates.
Soil: deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage.
Water: regular deep watering in summer.
Feed: balanced fertilizer monthly in summer; mulch with compost in spring.
Overwinter: in zones 7 or colder, lift and store rhizomes around 40 to 50°F.
Watch‑outs
- Needs space and fertility to reach full size.
- Leaves may shred in high winds; site with wind protection.
- Late start in cool springs can delay size and flowering.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Name dates to the 19th century; POWO treats Canna musifolia as a synonym, while RHS lists the cultivar ‘Musifolia’ with AGM.
References
Similar Flowers
Enjoying our flower guides? Add YourFlowersGuide as a preferred source on Google — it helps more readers find us.
Add to Preferred Sources