The Tropicanna Canna Lily (Canna ‘Phasion’) is a vibrant ornamental plant known for its striking foliage and brilliant flowers. It adds a tropical aesthetic to gardens and containers, making it a popular choice for its visual impact and ease of growth, bringing an exotic flair to diverse outdoor settings.
Characteristics and Appeal
The Tropicanna Canna Lily is distinguished by its visually stunning foliage. Its large, paddle-shaped leaves display bold stripes of orange, red, bronze, green, and yellow. This unique variegation creates an attractive focal point, even when the plant is not in bloom, with the most intense hues developing in ample sunlight.
Tropicanna also produces brilliant, often fiery orange or red flowers on tall stalks above the foliage. These blossoms attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. The plant typically reaches a mature height of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) with a spread of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters), contributing to a lush, exotic atmosphere in garden beds or large containers.
Planting and Growing
Light Requirements
Tropicanna Canna Lilies thrive in full sun exposure, which promotes optimal growth and vibrant foliage colors. A minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily is recommended for the leaves to display their full spectrum of hues. Insufficient light can lead to less intense variegation and reduced flowering.
Soil Needs
These cannas prefer rich, consistently moist, and well-draining soil. An ideal mixture is abundant in organic matter, which helps retain moisture while preventing waterlogging around the rhizomes. Amending garden beds with compost or aged manure before planting improves soil structure and fertility. Good drainage prevents rhizome rot.
Watering
Tropicanna Canna Lilies require consistent moisture throughout their active growing season. Regular and deep watering is essential, particularly during hot, dry periods, to maintain soil hydration. The soil should remain evenly moist, but not waterlogged, to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Fertilizing
Tropicanna Cannas are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support robust growth and prolific blooming. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, a slow-release granular fertilizer can offer sustained nutrient delivery. A formula slightly higher in phosphorus can encourage more abundant flower production.
Planting Rhizomes
Plant Tropicanna Canna rhizomes in spring, after the last frost and when soil temperatures reach at least 55-60°F (13-15°C). Plant rhizomes horizontally, 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep, with growth points facing upwards. Space individual rhizomes 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) apart to allow for mature spread and adequate air circulation. Ensuring proper depth promotes strong root development and plant stability.
Container Versus Ground
Tropicanna Cannas perform well in both garden beds and large containers. When planting in the ground, ensure the site meets light and soil requirements. For container cultivation, select pots at least 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) in diameter to accommodate the plant’s mature size. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Winterizing Tropicanna
When to Dig
For gardeners in freezing climates (USDA Zones 7 and colder), lift and store Tropicanna Canna rhizomes indoors. Dig after the first light frost blackens the foliage, but before a hard freeze. This timing allows the plant to send energy into the rhizomes for dormancy.
How to Dig
Cut back canna stalks to 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) above ground. Use a garden fork or spade to loosen soil around the plant, starting a foot away from the base. Gently lift the entire rhizome mass from the soil, keeping rhizomes intact.
Preparing for Storage
Once lifted, gently shake off excess soil; do not wash the rhizomes. Air dry them in a cool, shaded, well-ventilated area for three to seven days. This curing process toughens the outer skin, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and decay during storage.
Storing Rhizomes
Store cleaned, dried rhizomes in a cool, dark, dry location, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Place rhizomes in paper bags, cardboard boxes, or mesh bags, layering them with a dry medium like peat moss or vermiculite. Inspect them periodically for rot or shriveling.
Replanting in Spring
In late winter, check stored rhizomes for new growth or deterioration. Once the danger of spring frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (15°C), healthy rhizomes can be replanted directly into the garden.
Common Issues and Solutions
Pests
Tropicanna Canna Lilies can encounter common garden pests. Canna leaf rollers are a concern, as their larvae roll leaves and feed inside. Slugs and snails may chew holes in foliage, and aphids can cluster on new growth. Solutions include hand-picking, insecticidal soap, or introducing beneficial insects.
Diseases
While generally robust, Tropicanna Cannas can be susceptible to certain diseases. Rust, appearing as orange-brown pustules on leaves, can occur in humid conditions. Leaf spot diseases, characterized by dark spots, may also affect foliage. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering help prevent fungal issues. Remove and destroy severely affected leaves to limit disease spread.
Lack of Bloom/Color
If Tropicanna Cannas exhibit a lack of flowering or dull foliage color, insufficient sunlight is often the culprit. These plants require full sun to develop vibrant variegation and abundant blooms. Inadequate fertilization can also lead to stunted growth and poor flowering. Ensure consistent moisture and provide regular nutrients for vigorous growth.