The President Canna Lily Bulbs

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

3.5-5 Feet

Mature Spread

12-18 Inches

Growing Zones

8 to 11

The President Canna Lily Bulbs deliver red summer flowers above lush green foliage with a strong tropical outline. Canna x generalis 'The President' grows about 42 to 60 inches tall, giving containers and sunny beds height without reaching the scale of the tallest cannas. Its large red blooms are especially useful for hummingbird plantings, poolside color, and warm-season borders that need a clear focal point. We like it near outdoor seating because the foliage gives the planting pizazz even before the flower stalks open.

This classic canna grows from 2/3-eye rhizomes and performs as a perennial in zones 8 to 11. In colder zones, it can be grown as a summer bulb and stored indoors through winter. The President Canna Lily Bulbs prefer heat, full sun, and steady moisture, making them a strong fit for large patio planters and rich garden beds. Use them in tropical-style borders, sunny entry containers, narrow seasonal screens, or mixed annual beds where red flowers can lead the summer display.

The President Canna Lily Bulbs Care

Plant The President Canna Lily Bulbs in full sun, with 6 to 8 hours of direct light needed for strong flowering. Use moist, fertile soil that still drains well, since cold, saturated soil can rot the rhizomes before they sprout. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, about 6.0 to 7.0, is ideal.

Water lightly after planting and keep the area only lightly moist until shoots appear. Once plants are actively growing, water deeply when the top few inches of soil begin to dry, especially during hot weather or in containers. Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced fertilizer, or use a slow-release fertilizer in spring and midsummer. Mulch after the soil warms to conserve moisture and protect the shallow root zone.

Deadheading is optional, but removing spent flower stalks keeps the plant cleaner and directs energy toward new growth. Cut away torn or yellowing leaves at the base with clean pruners. In zones 7 and colder, lift rhizomes after frost blackens the foliage, dry them briefly, and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free place.

The President Canna Lily Bulbs Spacing

Plant The President Canna Lily Bulbs 2 to 3 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches apart, laying each rhizome horizontally with visible eyes facing upward when possible. For containers, use a heavy pot at least 18 to 24 inches wide with drainage holes, since mature foliage can become top-heavy in wind. Container plants need closer moisture checks during July and August than in-ground plants.

For container companions, pair The President Canna Lily Bulbs with fan flower, lantana, or sweet potato vines for heat-loving color and trailing texture at the base. In landscape beds, elephant ears make a dramatic foliage partner, while dahlias echo the summer bloom season without hiding the canna’s upright form. Salvia is a strong front-of-border companion because it suits full sun, attracts pollinators, and contrasts neatly with the broad canna leaves.

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