Calla Lily vs. Canna Lily: Key Differences and Which to Grow
(Calla Lily The Sophisticated Muse) Sleek, sculptural blooms in velvety blacks, pure whites, or bold jewel tones. Thrives in pots and shady corners—perfect for modern gardens and chic indoor spaces. Toxic beauty (handle with care). Low-maintenance but high-impact. (Canna Lily The Tropical Firework) Explodes with banana-like leaves and neon flowers. Loves sun, heat, and wet soil—ideal for jungle-style landscapes. Edible varieties add a surprising twist. Fast-growing, tall, and hummingbird-approved.
Canna and Calla Lily Differences: Summary Table
Feature | Calla Lily (Zantedeschia) | Canna Lily (Canna) |
|---|---|---|
Family | Araceae (Arum family) | Cannaceae (Canna family) |
Flower Shape | Trumpet-shaped, smooth, single flower | Clusters of smaller, asymmetrical flowers on tall spikes |
Leaves | Arrowhead-shaped, glossy, dark green | Large, broad, banana-like leaves (often variegated) |
Height | 1-3 feet tall | 3-8 feet tall (some dwarf varieties shorter) |
Growing Conditions | Prefers moist soil, partial shade | Loves full sun, tolerates wet soil |
Toxicity | Toxic if ingested (contains calcium oxalate) | Non-toxic (some varieties edible) |
Common Colors | White (most common), yellow, pink, purple, black | Red, orange, yellow, pink, bi-colored |
Root Type | Grows from rhizomes | Grows from thick, tuberous roots |
Previously, we compared the Calla Lily with Peace Lily and now, let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the Calla Lily vs Canna Lily to help our user find a low-maintenance plant at HomesFlora.
Canna Lilies vs Calla Lilies: Detailed Comparison
Physical Appearance
The first plant (Zantedeschia) features sleek, arrow-shaped foliage with a glossy texture, paired with a single, trumpet-like bloom in classic white or vibrant hues. In contrast, the second variety (Canna) boasts broad, banana-like leaves—sometimes striped or variegated—and produces tall spikes adorned with clusters of asymmetrical, brightly colored flowers.
Growth Rate
The former grows at a moderate pace, reaching 1–3 feet, making it ideal for containers or borders. The latter is a rapid grower, shooting up to 3–8 feet in a single season, suited for creating tropical backdrops or privacy screens.
Watering Needs
Both prefer consistently moist soil, but the arum-family species thrives in damp, well-drained substrates, while the canna-family plant tolerates wetter conditions, even thriving near ponds or in rain gardens.
Soil Requirements
The trumpet-flowered type flourishes in rich, slightly acidic, well-draining mixes with organic matter. Its counterpart adapts to heavier soils, including clay, but benefits from compost-enriched loam for optimal growth.
Light Preferences
Partial shade with morning sun is ideal for the compact variety to prevent leaf scorch, whereas the towering type demands full sun (6+ hours) for prolific blooms and sturdy stems.
Temperature & Humidity
The rhizomatous arum enjoys mild climates (60–75°F) and moderate humidity, while the tropical tuberous plant thrives in heat (70–90°F) and high humidity, though it’s more drought-tolerant once established.
Seasonal Care
In cooler zones, the smaller species enters dormancy in winter; lift rhizomes or mulch heavily. The larger variety dies back after frost—dig up tubers or mulch deeply in cold regions. Both benefit from spring division for rejuvenation.
Key Contrast: Elegance vs. boldness, shade tolerance vs. sun hunger, compact vs. towering. Each excels in distinct garden roles—subtle sophistication versus dramatic flair.
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick Calla Lily if you love sleek, artistic blooms for chic containers, shady spots, or elegant floral arrangements. Its low-maintenance grace suits modern, minimalist, or small-space gardens.
Go for Canna Lily if you crave bold, tropical drama—towering stems, fiery flowers, and lush foliage that thrive in sun and heat. Perfect for jungle-themed landscapes, poolside plantings, or attracting hummingbirds.
Related: Easter Lily Vs Spathiphyllum And Anthurium Vs Peace Lily.
Can’t Decide? Grow both! Use Callas for refined edges and Cannas for wild, eye-catching backdrops. Together, they balance sophistication and excitement in your garden.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the difference between calla lily and canna lily?
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia) feature elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and arrowhead leaves (1-3 ft tall), thriving in shade/moist soil. Canna lilies (Canna) boast clustered flowers on tall spikes (3-8 ft) with broad tropical leaves, preferring full sun/wet conditions.
What’s the difference between true lilies and calla lilies?
True lilies (Lilium) grow from bulbs with strappy leaves and 6-petal flowers. Calla lilies are not true lilies—they’re rhizomatous with a single spathe bloom (modified leaf) and belong to the arum family.
Is there a difference between canna and canna lily?
No—”canna” and “canna lily” refer to the same plant (Canna spp.). The term “lily” is misleading, as they’re unrelated to true lilies.
Do canna lilies need full sun or shade?
Canna lilies demand full sun (6+ hours daily) for optimal growth and blooms. They tolerate partial shade but may flower less vigorously.
