Cannas: Hardy, Resistant Garden Color

Cannas or Canna Lilies are a close relative of gingers and bananas, and some varieties are grown agriculturally for their starchy tubers or their seeds. Most gardeners love Cannas' large beautiful leaves and their big showy flowers.The flowers range from deep red to bright yellow, and they are great for attracting pollinators and pest eaters like bees, birds, and bats to your garden.

Native varieties of Canna can be found in the wild from South Carolina to Texas and south through the more temperate areas of South America. Although they are traditionally a more tropical plant, cultivated varieties will tolerate milder climates if given at least half a day of full sun and plenty of moisture. They are wonderful for containers and patio gardens.

Cannas are naturally resistant to most pests -- slugs and snails may be fond of the big juicy leaves. The genus Canna is not prone to many diseases. If you use well-drained soil and deadhead wilted blooms you will prevent most any fungus that might be tempted to attack your plant.