Are There Seeds Or Bulbs On Canna Lilies?

Canna lilies can be propagated from seeds, as many varieties produce viable seeds. However, starting canna lilies from seed may not provide the same variety as hybrids. To germinate canna seeds, soak them in water for about 24 hours to break down the thick seed coat and indicate growth.

To grow canna lilies from seed, soften the hard pod, cut the pod open, soak the seeds and keep them warm, and plant them in soil or vermiculite. They produce seed pods and bulbs, with each flower turning into a seed pod similar to day lilies. If you break them in half after they are about 6+ inches long, you should get another plant. In cool climates, canna bulbs are planted each spring and then dug up, while in warmer climates, cannas need to be dug up and divided every 4 weeks.

Not all canna lilies produce viable seeds, and hybrids, mixtures of two different varieties, sometimes don’t produce seeds or if the seeds are viable usually. Canna plants from bulbs that a friend gave me have grown over 7 feet tall and are seeding. Canna seeds should be soaked prior to planting, and they will produce an abundance of small black pellets that are easy to handle.

Cannas can also be propagated from seed, although cultivars won’t come true. In a good summer, many cannas will set seed capsules that can be sown. To germinate canna seeds, first nick the hard seed coat using pliers, a toenail cutter, or sand paper.