A key principle for trouble-free gardening is to choose plants that are adapted to your site.
Cannas, sometimes called canna lilies, are among the easiest perennials to grow. They thrive in humus-rich heavy soil and will even tolerate boggy soil. Conversely, in light sandy soil, they will be unhappy and need frequent watering unless it rains a lot. If you have naturally sandy soil, but really want to try cannas, add loads of compost before planting.
Cannas like a sunny position. They can be divided every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding. This is a great opportunity to share starts with friends. Plant rhizomes in early spring for blooms in the first year. Mulch when planting and very little other attention is needed. Deadheading (removing spent flowers and seed pods) can lengthen the summer blooming period, but is not essential.
Many varieties are available, from 3-foot dwarfs to full size 9-footers. Cannas are orangey-red flowers. Foliage ranges from green to variegated to reddish-purple and is striking in large floral arrangements, as well as in the garden.
Hard frost will kill the stalks, which can be removed to the compost pile. A good layer of mulch protects the roots from freezing. Here in East Texas the rhizomes can be left in the ground and will shoot up again in the spring.
Kathy Nelte, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service
Annual & Perennial Flowers Index
Gardening Tips For NorthEast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page