Yellow Water Lily
nuphar lutea
Also known as: ["Brandy Bottle Lily","Yellow Pond Lily"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant with large, round, floating leaves and bright yellow flowers that rise above the water surface.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Nymphaeales |
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus: | Nuphar |
| Botanical Name: | Nuphar lutea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: Pond or water garden with still or slow-moving water
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; soil should remain consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with organic matter. Suitable for aquatic or semi-aquatic conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust based on water depth and water clarity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn. Provide shade during intense midday sun, especially in hot climates. Position in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade if possible.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for signs of stress; adjust light exposure gradually; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.
Watering
Consistent water level maintenance, ensuring the crown remains submerged 15–30 cm below the water surface
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
Aquatic substrate or heavy clay bottom
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use heavy, clay-based soil for submerged roots; ensure soil is packed firmly to prevent floating; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C). Tolerates cooler water temperatures but thrives in warmer conditions during active growth.
Monitor water temperature; provide shade in extreme heat; insulate roots in cold weather.
Fertilizing
Every 2–3 months during active growing season with aquatic plant fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent algae growth; fertilize in early morning or late evening.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes into sections with at least one bud.
- Plant in aquatic soil.
- Cover with water to keep moist.
- Maintain stable conditions.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with partial shade. Maintain water levels to keep rhizomes submerged or moist.
Medium
Aquatic planting medium or coarse sand mixed with peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; may aid seed germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, aquatic planting trowel, containers.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizome sections have buds; keep soil consistently moist; protect young plants from strong sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowing or decaying leaves at the base. Trim overgrown stems to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or decaying leaves and stems to maintain plant health and water quality.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged parts; use clean tools; cut close to the base; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant carefully; trim any dead roots; place in a new container with fresh aquatic soil; ensure proper water level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new container; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; adjust water level; monitor recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently to maintain soil moisture, especially during active growth periods. Reduce watering slightly in winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and moisture retention. Incorporate coarse sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or damage to submerged parts.
Solution: Provide a layer of mulch or aquatic plant cover to insulate roots. Move containers to a sheltered location if possible. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering. High water temperatures may stress the plant.
Solution: Ensure adequate water circulation to cool the water. Provide shade during peak heat. Maintain consistent watering to keep soil moist.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use slow-release aquatic plant fertilizer or liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply during active growth (spring and summer) every 4–6 weeks.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Nuphar lutea. The toxic compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nuphar lutea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of nupharin and other alkaloids. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNuphar lutea contains toxic compounds, primarily nupharin, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Nuphar lutea toxic to humans?
A: It is mildly toxic if ingested.
Q: How does Nuphar lutea grow?
A: It grows in still or slow-moving freshwater habitats, with leaves floating on the surface and roots anchored in the mud.
Q: Does Nuphar lutea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Consistent water level mainten |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
