Canna lilies, known for their vibrant and tropical appearance, bring a touch of exotic elegance to any container garden. These stunning beauties, originally found in tropical and subtropical regions, have become increasingly popular among gardeners looking to add a burst of color and texture to their outdoor spaces. But what to plant alongside these magnificent lilies to create a visually captivating container garden? By carefully selecting companion plants, you can enhance the splendor of your canna lilies and create a harmonious display that will surely impress your friends and neighbors. Let’s explore some suitable options for planting with canna lilies in containers.
One plant that pairs splendidly with canna lilies is the white feather celosia (Celosia argentea). This feathery annual, with its unique white plumes, provides a striking contrast against the bold and fiery colors of the canna lilies. Placing the white feather celosia behind or beside canna lilies creates a visually appealing balance that is sure to catch the eye.
If you are aiming for a more dramatic and tropical feel, incorporating elephant ears (Colocasia esculenta) into your container garden is an excellent choice. These large, heart-shaped leaves in shades of green and purple add depth and texture to the arrangement, complementing the grandeur of the canna lilies. Placing the elephant ears behind or to the side of the canna lilies creates a lush and lavish garden display.
For a softer and more delicate touch, consider planting dwarf white jasmine (Jasminum polyanthum) alongside your canna lilies. With its fragrant blooms, this climbing vine will add a sweet aroma to your outdoor space. The dainty white flowers will create a charming contrast against the robust canna lilies and bring an air of romance to the container garden.
If you prefer a more subtle and harmonious combination, you can opt for ornamental grasses such as purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’). These grasses offer graceful movement and a gentle palette of purples and burgundies that harmonize beautifully with the fiery hues of the canna lilies. Planted in front or behind the canna lilies, they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the arrangement.
Lastly, if you desire a burst of color that complements the canna lilies, consider planting trailing petunias (Petunia sp.) in vibrant pinks, purples, or reds. These cascading annuals will spill over the sides of the container, softening the edges and adding a splash of lively tones that amplify the visual impact of the lilies.
By thoughtfully selecting companion plants, you can create a container garden that not only showcases the beauty of the canna lilies but also enhances their appeal. From contrasting colors and textures to harmonious combinations, the options for planting with canna lilies are endless. Experiment with different combinations and let your creativity flow to create a stunning display that will fill your garden with enchantment. So, grab your containers, gather your canna lilies, and let the companion planting journey begin!
key Takeaways
- Canna lilies are popular container plants due to their vibrant flowers and foliage.
- Choose a container large enough to accommodate the canna lily, ensuring it has drainage holes.
- Plant canna lilies in well-draining soil or use a potting mix that provides good drainage.
- Ensure the container receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimum growth.
- Water the canna lilies regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Consider planting canna lilies with other plants that complement their color and height.
- Popular companion plants for canna lilies include caladiums, elephant ears, and coleus.
- Adding trailing or cascading plants like sweet potato vine or creeping jenny can create a beautiful container display.
- Consider the mature height of the companion plants to ensure they don’t overshadow the canna lilies.
- Regularly fertilize the container plants with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Remove any faded or damaged flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- Canna lily tubers can be dug up and stored indoors over winter for re-planting the following spring.
- With proper care and suitable companion plants, canna lilies can thrive and create a stunning container display.
What to Plant with Canna Lilies in Containers: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing Complementary Plants
When selecting plants to accompany your canna lilies in containers, it’s essential to consider their compatibility. Complementary plants will not only enhance the visual appeal of your arrangement but also provide additional benefits such as attracting pollinators or repelling pests. Keep in mind the following factors when making your selections:
1. Color Palette:
The color of the companion plants should harmonize with the vibrant hues of canna lilies. Opt for contrasting colors to create a visually striking display or choose variations of similar tones for a more harmonious look.
2. Height and Structure:
Consider the height and growth habit of the companion plants. Taller plants can add vertical interest and provide a backdrop for the canna lilies. On the other hand, shorter plants can fill in the lower areas and create a layered effect.
3. Light and Water Requirements:
Ensure that the companion plants have similar light and water requirements as canna lilies to simplify maintenance. It is crucial to choose plants that thrive in similar conditions to prevent competition for resources.
Flowering Companions for Canna Lilies
Pairing canna lilies with flowering plants can elevate the visual appeal of your container garden. Here are some popular choices:
1. Petunias (Petunia spp.):
Petunias are versatile annuals that come in a wide range of colors. Their cascading habit contrasts beautifully with the upright growth of canna lilies. Additionally, petunias are known for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
2. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.):
The vibrant colors and strong scent of marigolds not only complement canna lilies but also act as natural pest deterrents. Their ability to repel insects, particularly nematodes, makes them an excellent choice for companion planting.
3. Salvia (Salvia spp.):
With their striking spiky flowers, salvias add an architectural element to any container arrangement. They are available in a variety of colors, including vibrant reds and purples, which can create a dramatic contrast with the canna lilies.
Foliage Combinations for Canna Lilies
Pairing canna lilies with foliage plants can create interesting textural contrasts and provide a lush backdrop. Consider these options:
1. Elephant Ears (Colocasia spp.):
Elephant ears have large, decorative leaves that can overshadow the canna lily blooms, making them a perfect complement. Their tropical appearance adds an exotic touch to the container garden.
2. Ornamental Grasses:
Grasses like dwarf pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), fountain grass (Pennisetum spp.), or zebra grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’) can add movement and texture to the arrangement. Their feathery plumes or variegated foliage provide an elegant backdrop for the vibrant canna lilies.
3. Hostas (Hosta spp.):
Hostas are shade-loving plants that can thrive alongside canna lilies in containers. Their broad, lush leaves provide a contrasting texture, and their variety of colors and patterns can add visual interest to the arrangement.
Conclusion
FAQs
1. What are some suitable companion plants for canna lilies in containers?
There are several plants that pair well with canna lilies in containers. Some popular options include:
– Coleus: The vibrant foliage of coleus plants complements the bold flowers of canna lilies.
– Verbena: The delicate, colorful flowers of verbena add a touch of femininity to canna lily containers.
– Lantana: Lantana not only attracts butterflies and hummingbirds but also provides a beautiful contrast with its multi-colored clusters of flowers.
2. Can I plant other types of lilies with canna lilies in containers?
While it is possible to plant other types of lilies with canna lilies, it is important to consider their growth habits and requirements. Some lilies may grow taller and overshadow the canna lilies, while others may have different water and light needs. It is recommended to choose lilies that have similar growth requirements and take into account their eventual size when selecting a container.
If you decide to plant other lilies with canna lilies, some suitable choices include Asiatic lilies, dwarf Oriental lilies, and daylilies.
3. How often should I water canna lilies and their companion plants in containers?
Canna lilies and their companion plants in containers should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the weather, container size, and the type of soil used. As a general guideline, watering once or twice a week is usually sufficient. However, it is important to monitor the moisture levels in the soil and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
It’s also important not to overwater the plants, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other problems. Always check the top inch of soil before watering to ensure it is dry to the touch.
4. Can I fertilize canna lilies and their companion plants in containers?
Yes, it is beneficial to fertilize canna lilies and their companion plants in containers to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for proper application rates.
Alternatively, you can also use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-decomposed manure to provide nutrients to the plants. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, taking care not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
5. Can I overwinter canna lilies and their companion plants in containers?
While canna lilies are not winter hardy in most regions, they can be overwintered in containers with proper care. Before the first frost, dig up the canna lily rhizomes and trim the foliage to about 2-3 inches above the rhizomes. Allow the rhizomes to dry for a day or two, then store them in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a basement or garage.
Water the stored rhizomes lightly every few weeks to prevent dehydration. In early spring, before the last frost date, plant the rhizomes back into fresh potting soil in containers and resume regular care. Some companion plants, such as coleus and lantana, may not survive frost and should be treated as annuals or brought indoors for winter.
Types and Options for Companion Plants with Canna Lilies
Cascading Plants for Dramatic Effect
If you’re looking to create a visually stunning container display, consider incorporating cascading plants. These plants spill over the edges of the container, softening the overall look and adding a touch of elegance. Some options to consider include trailing petunias, sweet potato vine, and bacopa. Their trailing growth habit will gracefully drape over the sides of the container, complementing the upright growth of canna lilies.
Aromatic Herbs for Fragrance
Adding aromatic herbs to your canna lily container not only provides a delightful fragrance but also serves a practical purpose. Herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and thyme are known for their pleasant scents and can help deter pests from your container garden. Plant them either within the same container or in nearby containers, allowing their fragrances to mingle with the canna lilies to create a sensory experience.
Final thoughts
Planting canna lilies in containers opens up a world of possibilities for creating eye-catching displays and incorporating complementary companion plants. By choosing suitable companion plants like coleus, verbena, and lantana, you can enhance the beauty of your canna lilies and create harmonious container gardens. Remember to provide adequate water, fertilize appropriately, and consider overwintering techniques to ensure the long-term health and vitality of your canna lilies and their companions.
Experiment with different combinations and designs to find the perfect match for your personal style and garden space. With a little creativity and care, your canna lily containers will become colorful focal points that bring joy and beauty to your outdoor living areas.