Complementing Your Garden with Canna Lily Companion Plants

Are you looking for a way to enhance your garden's beauty and add more variety to your landscaping? One great option is to incorporate canna lilies, known for their large, colorful blooms and lush foliage, into your design plans. But did you know that canna lilies also pair well with certain companion plants? By choosing the right plants to complement your cannas, you can create a garden space that's both stunning and functional.

Why Use Companion Plants?

Companion planting has been used in gardening for centuries as a way to improve soil quality, repel pests, and increase yields. When it comes to canna lilies, companion planting can not only provide these benefits but also create a visually striking display. By choosing plants that complement the colors and textures of your cannas, you can showcase their beauty even further.

Choosing the Right Companion Plants

When selecting companion plants for your canna lilies, there are a few key factors to consider:

Color Scheme

Canna lilies come in a variety of shades, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. To create a cohesive look, choose companion plants with complementary colors. For example, if you have bright red cannas, consider planting some yellow or orange marigolds nearby.

Height and Texture

Canna lilies can grow quite tall, so it's important to choose companion plants that won't be overwhelmed by their height. Look for plants that grow at a similar height or slightly shorter, and that have contrasting textures. For instance, you might pair the smooth, shiny leaves of cannas with the feathery fronds of ferns.

Soil and Sunlight Needs

Different plants have different soil and sunlight requirements, so it's important to choose companions that will thrive in similar conditions. For example, if you're planting cannas in a spot that gets full sun, consider adding some heat-loving marigolds or zinnias.

Companion Plant Ideas

Now that you know what to look for in a companion plant, let's explore some specific options:

Alliums

Alliums, such as chives, onions, and garlic, can add a pop of color and a spicy scent to your garden. They also repel aphids and other pests that can damage your cannas.

Begonias

Begonias come in a wide range of colors and textures, making them a versatile choice for companion planting. They prefer moist soil and partial shade, so they'll do well under the canopy of taller canna lilies.

Caladiums

Caladiums are known for their bright, showy foliage, which can complement the more subdued blooms of your cannas. They prefer shady spots and moist soil.

Coleus

Coleus plants come in a rainbow of colors and patterns, making them an eye-catching addition to any garden. They prefer partial shade and moist soil, so they'll do well alongside your cannas.

Dahlia

Dahlias are another flower that come in a variety of hues and shapes, and their large blooms can hold their own next to the showy cannas. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Ferns

Ferns are a great choice for adding texture and contrast to your garden. They prefer shaded spots with moist soil, making them ideal companions for canna lilies.

Gazania

Gazanias are a low-growing flower that come in shades of yellow, orange, and pink. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, so they'll do well in the same conditions as your cannas.

Lantana

Lantanas are a hardy, drought-resistant plant that come in a variety of colors. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, making them a good choice for areas with hot, dry summers.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a classic companion plant for cannas, thanks to their bright colors and ability to repel pests. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Mexican Petunia

Mexican petunias are a hardy, low-maintenance plant that come in shades of purple, pink, and white. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, making them a good choice for sunny gardens.

Petunias

Petunias come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice for companion planting. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Zinnias

Zinnias are another classic companion plant for cannas, thanks to their bright, showy blooms. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Caring for Your Companion Plants

In order for your companion plants to thrive alongside your cannas, it's important to give them the proper care:

Watering

Most companion plants prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Companion plants may benefit from periodic fertilizing, especially if your soil is lacking in nutrients. Just be sure to choose a fertilizer that's appropriate for the specific plant you're feeding.

Pest Control

While many companion plants can help repel pests, it's still important to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation. If you do notice pests, try using natural pest control methods before resorting to chemical sprays.



By incorporating companion plants into your canna lily garden, you can create a visually striking space that's also functional and beneficial for your plants. Be sure to choose plants that complement your cannas in terms of color, height, and texture, and give them the proper care they need to thrive.

FAQs

1. Can I grow cannas and their companion plants in containers?

Yes! As long as you choose plants with similar soil and sunlight requirements and provide adequate drainage, you can create a beautiful container garden with cannas and their companions.

2. Do all companion plants have to be flowers?

No! While flowers are a popular choice for companion planting, you can also choose herbs, vegetables, or other types of plants that will complement your cannas.

3. Can I use companion planting to repel pests from my cannas?

Yes! Many companion plants, such as alliums and marigolds, are known for their pest-repelling properties.

4. Do I need to add extra fertilizer to my companion plants?

It depends on the specific plant and your soil conditions. Some companion plants may benefit from periodic fertilizing, while others may not need it.

5. Can I mix and match different companion plants with my cannas?

Absolutely! Experimenting with different combinations of plants can lead to some beautiful and unique garden designs.