Canna Lily Bulbs (Rhizomes)

Canna Lily Bulbs FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Canna Lily Bulbs in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Canna Lily Bulbs

The best time to plant canna lily bulbs in the UK is in late spring, typically from April to May, once the risk of frost has passed. Cannas thrive in warm soil, so it’s important to wait until the ground has warmed up sufficiently, ideally to at least 10°C (50°F). If you wish to get an early start, you can plant the bulbs indoors in pots in late March, keeping them in a warm and bright location. Once the shoots are established and the weather has warmed, they can be transplanted outdoors.

How to Plant Canna Lily Bulbs

To plant canna lily bulbs, start by choosing a sunny spot with rich, well-drained soil. If planting outdoors, wait until late spring (April to May) when the risk of frost has passed. Prepare the soil by loosening it and mixing in compost or well-rotted manure to boost fertility.

Plant the bulbs 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep with the pointed side facing up and space them 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) apart to allow room for growth. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

If starting indoors, plant the bulbs in pots in late March, covering them with 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) of compost, and keep them in a warm, bright place. Once the shoots are established and the outdoor temperatures are consistently warm, transplant them into the garden. Cannas thrive in moist conditions, so water regularly, and consider mulching to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How long do Canna Lily Bulbs take to grow

Canna lily bulbs typically take 2 to 3 weeks to sprout after planting, depending on the soil temperature and growing conditions. Once the shoots emerge, the plants will grow rapidly, with most varieties reaching their full height and blooming within 8 to 12 weeks. Cannas will continue to flower throughout the summer and into early autumn if they are well-watered and regularly deadheaded. For an earlier start to the growing season, you can plant the bulbs indoors in pots in late March and transplant them outdoors after the last frost.

Why Grow Canna Lily Bulbs?

Growing canna lily bulbs offers a stunning way to add a tropical touch to your garden, with their vibrant, showy flowers and lush, exotic foliage. These versatile plants thrive in sunny spots and are perfect for borders, containers, or as eye-catching focal points in your garden. Cannas bloom throughout the summer and into early autumn, providing a long-lasting display of colour. Their foliage, ranging from bright green to deep bronze or variegated shades, adds texture and interest even when the plants aren’t flowering. Cannas are also relatively low-maintenance, thrive in the UK climate during summer, and can be overwintered indoors for replanting the following year, making them a cost-effective and beautiful addition to any outdoor space.

Where can you grow Canna Lily Bulbs?

Canna lily bulbs can be grown in a variety of locations, provided they are planted in a sunny, sheltered spot with rich, well-drained soil. They thrive in flower beds, borders, and containers, making them versatile for gardens of all sizes. Their bold foliage and vibrant flowers make them ideal as focal points in borders or as backdrop plants in mixed displays. Cannas also grow well near ponds or in areas with slightly moist soil, as they enjoy consistent moisture during the growing season. For smaller spaces, they can be grown in patio pots or balconies, provided they are protected from strong winds, which can damage their large leaves.

Why Buy Canna Lily Bulbs from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Canna Lily Bulbs and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.