Canna Nova 'Cleopatra' (1 rhizome)

Canna × generalis ‘Cleopatra’

Canna ‘Cleopatra’ produces green foliage variegated with purple and yellow, red, or bicolour flowers. One of the most distinctive ornamental cannas, it delivers bold tropical colour all summer long.
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Detailed plant guide
Advice adapted to Canada
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Quantity
1 rhizome
Exposure
Full sun
Life cycle
Perennial
Hardiness
Zone 10

Discover the plant

Common nameCleopatra Canna Lily
FamilyCannaceae
GenusCannabis
TypeRhizome
Botanical nameCanna × generalis ‘Cleopatra’

Cleopatra Canna Lily (Canna × generalis ‘Cleopatra’) is a remarkable tropical perennial prized for its green foliage irregularly variegated with deep purple, making every plant truly unique. From July to September, yellow, red, or striking bicolour flowers may appear on the same flower spike, creating an ever-changing and distinctly exotic display. Its rapid growth and vigorous habit, reaching approximately 120 cm (48 in) in height, bring movement and vibrant colour to summer landscapes. Hardy only to Zone 10, this variety must be protected from frost in Quebec and overwintered indoors as a rhizome.

Plant ‘Cleopatra’ canna lily in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed thoroughly. Choose a location in full sun with rich, fertile, organic, evenly moist, and perfectly drained soil. Position the rhizome horizontally approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep and space plants 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart. Water generously to maintain consistent moisture without allowing standing water. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Remove spent blooms regularly, then lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place until the following spring.

‘Cleopatra’ canna lily creates a spectacular focal point in tropical flower beds, generous borders, exotic gardens, and large containers at least 45 cm (18 in) in diameter. Its beautifully variegated foliage pairs especially well with caladiums, alocasias, coleus, begonias, and ornamental grasses, enhancing its lush appearance and colourful contrasts. Placed on a patio or near an entrance, it immediately draws attention with its unpredictable blooms and dynamic growth habit. Its summer flowers attract a variety of pollinators and may also be used in floral arrangements, although they are not intended for consumption.

Canna ‘Cleopatra’ ( Canna ) : des fleurs de canna jaunes et rouges au-dessus de feuilles vertes et pourpres. Le visuel Florissa présente la plante et son nom dans la partie inférieure de l’étiquette. La photographie occupe presque toute la surface, tandis que le bandeau du bas rassemble les indications du produit. Cette vue permet de reconnaître son apparence et de distinguer la variété présentée.

Planting guide

Plant well.Grow beautifully.

Planting depth

10 cm (4 in)

Best planting time

Spring

Propagation

Propagate by dividing the rhizomes in spring once they have several growing buds. This ensures plants remain true to the variety.

Growing method

Plant the rhizomes in spring after all danger of frost has passed, approximately 10 cm (4 in) deep in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Position the rhizome horizontally before covering it with soil. Space plants 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun. Water thoroughly after planting, then keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a dry place until spring.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Soil pH

Neutral to slightly acidic

Minimum temperature

5°C (41°F)

Care level

Easy

Watering

Water generously throughout the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist without allowing standing water.

Soil type

Rich in organic matter, fertile, evenly moist, and perfectly drained soil.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Regular applications of compost also improve plant vigour.

Seasonal care

Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Feed every two weeks. Lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

45 cm (18 in)
Container gardening requires planning for the root volume and the plant's final height. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a suitable growing medium. Leave enough space for the recommended planting depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check the moisture, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature variations than planting in open ground. Therefore, plan for a winter storage location from the outset that is compatible with the plant's needs and your region's climate. Plant canna rhizomes in spring in warmed soil, after the last frosts. Choose a sunny location sheltered from winds that could tear the large leaves. Prepare fertile and loose enough soil for the roots to develop around the rhizome, then place the buds facing upwards. Water after planting and monitor moisture during establishment. Once the leaves have developed, watering should follow growth and weather conditions. For container planting, choose a volume suitable for the mature plant and keep the drainage holes clear, without letting the roots dry out completely between waterings. In winter, protect the container according to the plant's needs: its roots are more exposed to cold than when planted in the ground.
Canna ‘Cleopatra’ ( Canna ) : des fleurs de canna jaunes et rouges au-dessus de feuilles vertes et pourpres. Le visuel Florissa présente la plante et son nom dans la partie inférieure de l’étiquette. La photographie occupe presque toute la surface, tandis que le bandeau du bas rassemble les indications du produit. Cette vue permet de reconnaître son apparence et de distinguer la variété présentée.

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

120 cm (48 in)

Width / spread

40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in)

Flower color

Yellow, red, and bicolour

Foliage color

Green variegated with purple

Foliage type

Deciduous

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom period

Flowers bloom abundantly from mid-summer until the first frost, attracting a variety of pollinators. Individual plants may produce yellow, red, or spectacular bicolour flowers.
Canna ‘Cleopatra’ ( Canna ) : des fleurs de canna jaunes et rouges au-dessus de feuilles vertes et pourpres. Le visuel Florissa présente la plante et son nom dans la partie inférieure de l’étiquette. La photographie occupe presque toute la surface, tandis que le bandeau du bas rassemble les indications du produit. Cette vue permet de reconnaître son apparence et de distinguer la variété présentée.

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Caladiums, alocasias, coleus, begonias, and ornamental grasses make excellent companion plants.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

When should Canna ‘Cleopatra’ be planted?
Plant the rhizomes in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Warm soil encourages rapid growth and abundant flowering.
Can this canna be grown in containers?
Yes. This variety performs exceptionally well in large containers with rich soil and regular watering. Container growing also makes overwintering the rhizomes easier.
Why should the rhizomes be lifted in autumn?
This variety is not hardy in cold climates. The rhizomes should be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring.
Why do the flowers change colour?
‘Cleopatra’ is famous for its highly variable blooms. A single plant may produce yellow, red, or bicolour flowers, making every specimen unique.
Is the foliage as ornamental as the flowers?
Yes. Its green foliage variegated with deep purple remains spectacular throughout the growing season and enhances its exotic character.

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.

Supporting wildlife

Pollinators