Canna ‘Pretoria’ is a striking tropical-looking perennial known for its bold foliage and dramatic flower spikes. The plant produces large, upright, banana-like leaves in rich green with occasional bronze or burgundy tinges, creating a lush, architectural backdrop in the garden. In mid to late summer, tall spikes of bright red flowers emerge, adding vertical interest and a tropical flair. Its combination of vibrant blooms and dramatic foliage makes it an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as a focal point in mixed plantings.
- Size: Height: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft). Spread: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft)
- Flowering: Mid to late summer
- Growth habit: Upright, clumping perennial from rhizomes
- Light: Full sun for best foliage color and flowering.
- Soil: Rich, well-drained soil; tolerates average soils but thrives with added organic matter.
- Water: Regular watering; keep soil evenly moist during hot, dry periods.
- Hardiness: Hardy in Zones 7–10; in colder climates like Regina, SK, rhizomes should be lifted and stored over winter.
- Planting depth: Plant rhizomes just below soil surface, about 10 cm (4 in) deep, spacing 50–60 cm apart.
- Maintenance: Remove spent flowers and damaged foliage; cut back stems after first frost.
- Propagation: By division of rhizomes in spring.
- Support: Typically not required, but staking may help in windy locations.