Canna Lily - Australis

The Canna Lily Australis is a striking tropical annual featuring dramatic, burgundy-purple foliage and vibrant red-orange blooms that create a bold statement in summer gardens. This tall, architectural plant reaches heights of 4-6 feet, making it perfect for back borders, tropical-themed landscapes, or as a dramatic container specimen. The Australis variety combines the appeal of exotic flowers with remarkable foliage interest, providing multiple seasons of visual impact. Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to its nectar-rich blooms, adding wildlife interest to your garden while creating a tropical paradise aesthetic even in northern growing zones.

Key Features:

- Dramatic burgundy-purple foliage creates visual impact even before flowering begins.

- Tall, architectural growth habit makes it perfect for back borders and focal points in the landscape.

- Vibrant red-orange blooms attract pollinators including hummingbirds and butterflies.

- Versatile planting options include borders, containers, water gardens, and tropical-themed landscapes.

- Extended blooming period from mid-summer through fall with proper deadheading.

- Large, paddle-shaped leaves provide tropical texture and exceptional contrast to traditional garden plants.

Plant Care Instructions

1. Light Requirements:

- Prefers full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily.

- Will tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.

- Morning sun with afternoon shade is acceptable in very hot climates.

2. Watering:

- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and flowering periods.

- Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.

- Increase watering during hot, dry periods to maintain vigor.

3. Soil Type:

- Thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil with high organic content.

- Add compost before planting to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.

- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Temperature & Hardiness Zone:

- Not winter hardy to Zone 3b; treat as annual or dig and store rhizomes for winter.

- Prefers warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) for optimal growth.

- Plant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed when soil temperatures reach 60°F (15°C).

5. Fertilizer:

- Feed monthly with a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.

- Alternatively, use a water-soluble fertilizer every