The Cannova Red Golden Flame is a modern hybrid cultivar of the tropical Canna lily (Canna x generalis). Developed as part of the Cannova F1 seed series, this variety is known for its improved performance, uniformity, and ease of growth compared to older rhizome-propagated Cannas. The plant features a distinctive, upright, and compact habit, typically reaching a mature height between 30 and 48 inches. Its tropical appearance is defined by bold, paddle-shaped green foliage that contrasts with its unique, bicolored flowers. The blooms are a vibrant combination of saturated red petals edged with a bright yellow or golden flame, making it a desirable choice for container plantings and garden beds.
Ideal Growing Conditions and Planting
Successful cultivation requires a location that mimics its tropical origins, specifically full, direct sunlight. The plant needs a minimum of six hours of direct sun daily to ensure vigorous growth and maximum blooms. Planting should only commence after the danger of the last spring frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed to at least 60°F.
The soil must be rich in organic matter and consistently well-draining. Cannas are heavy feeders and thrive best when the planting site is amended with compost or aged manure. When planting rhizomes, place them horizontally just beneath the soil surface, covered with no more than two inches of soil.
Proper spacing is important for air circulation; plant rhizomes approximately 7 to 10 inches apart for a dense display. If using the plant as a “thriller” centerpiece in a container, select a pot large enough, such as an 18-inch diameter container, to accommodate the root system and mature height. Starting rhizomes indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date can give them a head start in regions with shorter growing seasons.
Essential Care During the Growing Season
Consistent and heavy watering is required, as the Cannova Red Golden Flame is a moisture-loving plant. The soil should be kept evenly moist and never allowed to dry out completely, especially during peak summer heat or when grown in a container. Potted plants require more frequent watering than those in the ground because their limited soil volume dries out quickly.
The plant’s rapid growth and continuous blooming demand a regular feeding schedule. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, or one with slightly higher nitrogen content, to support foliage and flower development. Fertilize every two weeks throughout the active growing season, from late spring until early fall.
To maintain appearance and encourage new flower spikes, deadheading is necessary. Remove spent flowers by cutting the entire stalk down to the nearest set of healthy leaves or the base of the plant. This redirects the plant’s energy away from seed production and into vegetative growth and new flowering shoots.
Regularly inspecting the foliage helps identify potential pest issues common to Cannas. Frequent pests include Canna leaf rollers, small caterpillars that stitch leaves together and feed inside the fold. Spider mites can also become problematic, particularly in hot, dry conditions, causing stippling damage.
Addressing these issues involves manually crushing leaf folds containing rollers or applying horticultural oil or insecticidal soap for spider mites. While the Cannova series is robust, it is susceptible to bacterial spot or rust. Manage diseases by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, as providing excellent cultural conditions is the most effective defense.
Preparing for Winter and Rhizome Storage
The Cannova Red Golden Flame is an herbaceous perennial in USDA Zones 8–10, but in colder regions, rhizomes must be lifted and stored indoors for winter. Prepare the plant for dormancy shortly after the first light frost, which signals the end of the growing season and triggers energy storage in the underground structures.
Begin by cutting the stalks down to a short stub, leaving two to three inches above the soil line. Carefully dig up the entire clump of rhizomes, avoiding damage to the storage organs. Gently brush away excess soil without washing the rhizomes, as moisture promotes rot during storage.
The next step is curing: allow the rhizomes to air-dry for about one week in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated location (70°F to 80°F). Curing toughens the outer skin and heals minor cuts. Once cured, pack the rhizomes in a storage medium such as peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust to maintain stable moisture without becoming wet.
Store the packed rhizomes in a cardboard box or breathable container, ensuring they do not touch one another. Place them in a cool, dark location where temperatures remain consistently between 40°F and 60°F, such as a basement or cool cellar. Avoid any location that might freeze. Periodically check the stored rhizomes for signs of shriveling (too dry) or mold (too much moisture).