Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’: A Fiery Jewel for the Summer Garden
Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’, commonly called the Lucifer Dwarf Canna, is a compact yet striking perennial prized for its vivid flowers and refined form. Belonging to the family Cannaceae, this variety boasts brilliant red blooms edged with golden-yellow, appearing like blazing flames above lush, green, paddle-like foliage. Originating from the garden breeding work of Swiss hybridizer H. Faiss and introduced in 1968, ‘Lucifer’ remains a favorite among gardeners for containers, borders, and mass plantings.
Description and Characteristics of Canna ‘Lucifer’
Compact and showy, Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’ typically grows to a manageable height of 2–3 feet (60–90 cm), with a spread of about 2–3 feet (60–90 cm). The plants rise from rhizomes and produce sturdy, upright stalks that support flamboyant, iris-like flowers. Each petal exhibits a saturated red hue kissed by a golden-yellow edge, making the blooms impossible to overlook.
The broad, lance-shaped leaves are rich green with a slight bluish tinge, offering a lush backdrop to the vivid flowers. Blooming begins in mid-summer and continues into early fall, with consistent deadheading prolonging the display.
As a member of the Crozy Group, also known as the Gladiolus-flowering cannas, ‘Lucifer’ is both elegant and floriferous. Its compact size also places it in the Miniature Group, making it an ideal candidate for container gardens and small-space planting.
How to Grow Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’
Light
Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’ thrives in full sun. In regions with particularly intense summer heat, providing light afternoon shade may help reduce stress and preserve flower color.
Soil
This cultivar performs best in rich, organic, well-drained soil. A pH range between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. For containers, choose a fertile potting mix with good drainage.
Watering
Cannas require consistent moisture. Water deeply once or twice per week, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist but never soggy. Container-grown plants often need daily watering in hot weather. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilization
Feed with a balanced fertilizer (5-10-5 or 10-10-10) beginning in early spring once growth emerges. Apply monthly throughout the growing season, or use a slow-release formula in spring and again in midsummer to promote sustained blooming and lush foliage.
Spacing and Planting Depth
Plant rhizomes 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm) deep, with any eyes or buds facing upward. Space plants 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow airflow and reduce disease risk.
Seasonal Care and Maintenance
Pruning
Deadhead faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. In autumn, after the first frost has blackened the leaves, cut back the foliage to about 6 inches (15 cm).
Overwintering
Canna Lily ‘Lucifer’ is hardy in USDA Zones 8–11. In colder zones (3–7), dig up the rhizomes before frost. After drying them in a shady, well-ventilated area, store in peat moss, vermiculite, or newspaper in a cool (45–55°F / 7–12°C), frost-free space until spring.
Pests and Diseases
Though relatively pest-resistant, ‘Lucifer’ may attract a few unwanted guests:
- Canna Leaf Roller: Can damage leaves by rolling and feeding within the foliage. Look for signs early and hand-remove or use appropriate insecticides.
- Japanese Beetles, Caterpillars, Slugs, and Snails: These may chew on leaves and flowers. Use traps or hand-pick to reduce populations.
- Fungal Issues: Good air circulation and watering at the base help prevent problems like leaf spots and rust.
Propagation
‘Canna’ ‘Lucifer’ is easily propagated by division. In spring, divide healthy rhizomes ensuring each section has at least one viable bud. Plant immediately in warm soil or pots. Seeds can also be sown after a 24-hour soak, though this method is slower and less predictable.
Uses in the Garden
The compact form and fiery color of Canna ‘Lucifer’ make it a stunning accent in beds, borders, and container gardens. It pairs well with ornamental grasses, salvias, and plants with contrasting foliage. Ideal for patios, terraces, or small gardens, it also performs beautifully when massed in drifts for a bold statement.
Pollinators and Benefits
The blooms of ‘Lucifer’ are highly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. This canna is also considered deer resistant, adding to its appeal in gardens troubled by browsing animals. It brings a tropical look to temperate zones and offers weeks of bold color with relatively low maintenance.
Final Thoughts
With its vivid red and yellow blossoms, lush foliage, and manageable height, Canna ‘Lucifer’ is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking impact without fuss. Whether grown in containers or as part of a garden bed, this dwarf canna lives up to its fiery name, delivering color, charm, and reliability through the heat of summer and into the early chill of autumn.
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