Canna Companion Plants: The Perfect Match for Your Garden

Are you looking for a way to add some color and life to your garden? One of the best ways to achieve this is by planting companion plants alongside your cannas. Canna companion plants are plants that grow well alongside cannas, creating a harmonious and beautiful combination that will make your garden the envy of all who see it. In this article, we'll explore the world of canna companion plants, discussing everything from the benefits of planting them together to the different types of plants that work well alongside cannas.

The Benefits of Planting Canna Companion Plants

Planting canna companion plants in your garden can offer many benefits. Here are just a few:

Better Soil Quality

Canna companion plants can improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen in the soil, which helps promote healthy plant growth. Some examples of plants that can fix nitrogen include beans, peas, and clover.

Pest Control

Certain canna companion plants can repel pests that may otherwise damage your cannas. For example, marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes, while garlic can help deter aphids.

Increased Pollination

Adding companion plants to your garden can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which can increase the yield of your plants. This is especially important if you're growing vegetables or fruits in your garden.

Types of Canna Companion Plants

Now that we've discussed some of the benefits of planting canna companion plants, let's take a look at some of the best types of plants to grow alongside your cannas.

Marigolds

Marigolds are one of the most popular companion plants for cannas. Not only do they repel nematodes, but they also add a bright pop of color to your garden. Marigolds come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red, making them an excellent choice for adding contrast to your garden.

Cosmos

Cosmos are another great option for planting alongside cannas. These colorful flowers attract butterflies and bees, making them an excellent choice if you're looking to increase pollination in your garden. Cosmos come in shades of pink, purple, and white, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

Lantana

Lantana is a hardy plant that thrives in hot weather, making it an ideal companion for cannas. This plant produces clusters of small, brightly colored flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Lantana comes in a range of colors, including pink, orange, and yellow.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are not only beautiful, but they also provide shade for other plants in your garden. They attract bees and other pollinators, making them an excellent choice for increasing yield in your garden. Sunflowers come in a range of sizes, from small dwarf varieties to tall giants that can reach up to 10 feet high.

How to Plant Canna Companion Plants

When planting canna companion plants, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Choose Plants That Have Similar Growing Conditions

Make sure to choose companion plants that have similar growing conditions to your cannas. For example, if your cannas require full sun, make sure to choose plants that also thrive in full sun.

Consider Plant Height

When choosing companion plants, make sure to consider their height. You don't want your companion plants to be so tall that they overshadow your cannas. Keep in mind the mature size of each plant and space them accordingly.

Group Plants Together

Grouping plants together can not only create a more aesthetically pleasing garden but also help protect them from pests and diseases. Consider planting a group of marigolds around your cannas or interspersing cosmos throughout your garden.

Caring for Your Canna Companion Plants

Once you've planted your canna companion plants, it's important to take proper care of them to ensure they thrive alongside your cannas. Here are some tips for caring for your canna companion plants:

Water Regularly

Most canna companion plants require regular watering to stay healthy. Make sure to water them thoroughly, especially during hot weather.

Fertilize as Needed

Depending on the type of companion plant, you may need to fertilize them periodically. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as over-fertilization can be harmful to your plants.

Prune When Necessary

Regular pruning can help keep your companion plants looking neat and tidy. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged foliage, as well as any spent flowers.

FAQs

1. Can I grow any type of plant alongside my cannas?

While there are many plants that can grow alongside cannas, it's important to choose plants that have similar growing conditions and won't compete with your cannas for resources.

2. Do all canna companion plants attract pollinators?

No, not all canna companion plants attract pollinators. However, many do, making them a great choice if you're looking to increase pollination in your garden.

3. Can I plant cannas and their companion plants in containers?

Yes, you can plant cannas and their companion plants in containers. Just make sure the container is large enough to accommodate both plants and provides adequate drainage.

4. Do I need to fertilize my companion plants?

Some companion plants may require periodic fertilization to stay healthy. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as over-fertilization can be harmful to your plants.

5. What are some other benefits of planting canna companion plants?

In addition to improving soil quality, repelling pests, and increasing pollination, canna companion plants can also help prevent erosion and provide shade for other plants in your garden.



Canna companion plants offer a wide range of benefits, from improving soil quality to attracting pollinators. By choosing the right companion plants and following proper care guidelines, you can create a beautiful, thriving garden that will delight you for years to come.