The President Canna

Canna Lily generalis 'The President' is a timeless classic, celebrated for its vibrant red-orange blooms and expansive, lush foliage. These striking flowers, which persist from mid-summer through to frost, are a magnet for hummingbirds drawn to their nectar-rich allure. While it is renowned for its bright and sizable blooms, it is somewhat more compact in growth compared to the larger cannas, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space but a desire for a tropical ambiance. This variety, with its deep historical ties, has even adorned the White House Garden. When planted en masse at the back of borders or housed in containers, its lance-shaped leaves create a commanding presence, enhancing any garden or outdoor living space.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in late spring or early summer after the last frost date

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather
• - For container-grown Canna Lilies, water more frequently as containers dry out faster

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
• - Supplement with a high-phosphorus, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
• - Reduce feeding in late summer as the plant prepares for dormancy

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering
• - Cut back the plant after the first frost if grown as an annual, or dig up rhizomes for overwintering in colder climates

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like aphids, slugs, and Japanese beetles

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms continuously from mid-summer through fall, adding bold color to the garden

Light Requirements:

• - Can tolerate light shade, but flower production may decrease

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Heat-tolerant and performs well in hot, humid conditions

Companion Plants for Canna Lily:

• - Coleus: Their vibrant foliage contrasts beautifully with the bold flowers of Canna Lilies
• - Zinnias: The bright, cheerful flowers of Zinnias complement the tropical look of Canna Lilies
• - Salvia: Their spiky blooms add vertical interest and attract pollinators, enhancing the tropical feel
• - Verbena: The trailing habit and clusters of small flowers of Verbena create a striking contrast with the large, upright Canna Lilies