Water Lilies

Waterlilies and aquatic plants are not only great flowering plants but also act as biofilters and oxygenators. Waterlilies are perhaps the best known aquatic plants and vary in size from Nymphaea tetragona at 40cm upwards and are available for sale by mail order in the UK.

Growing Water lilies

Water lilies are classic aquatic plants. With over 50 species, both evergreen and deciduous ranging from tropical waterlilies to the more hardy types.
Water lilies require a sunny position if flowering is to be successful and remember to keep approximatly 1/3 of the pond clear to improve appearance. Planting depth oof water lilies differs from species to species, so ask for written planting instructions when purchasing, and remember that water lilies do not like running water.

The native water lily is Nymphaea alba, known as the 'European White Waterlily' or 'White Lotus' this species does require a large pond to be really successful.

Nymphaea Marliacea Chromatella is one of the better species for smaller ponds, nice yellow flowers and suitable for ponds to 3ft deep. Nymphaea Marliacea Rosea is another reasonably compct water lily with pink flowers. Nymphaea 'Laydekeri Alba' is nicely perfumed with cup shaped flowers. Nymphaea 'odorata Sulphurea' is an old fashioned style water lily with a classical elegance in its star shaped flowers.

The smallest water lily is probably Nymphaea tetragona flowers only 40cm in diameter this one could be grown in a small pond or even a water barrel.Nymphaea tetragona is sometimes called the 'Pygmy Water Lily'.