American white waterlily, Fragrant waterlily
nymphaea odorata
Also known as: ["Fragrant waterlily","Sweet-scented waterlily"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant with fragrant white flowers and broad, floating leaves, native to North America.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Nymphaeales |
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus: | Nymphaea |
| Botanical Name: | Nymphaea odorata |
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":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Waterlogged; no drainage needed as plant is aquatic.
- Soil Type: Heavy clay or loam-based pond soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only damaged or yellowing foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure water surface is calm for optimal light absorption.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate container-grown plants for even growth; use shade cloth if leaves scorch; keep away from reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
Maintain water level at 30–60 cm above rhizomes, ensuring soil is consistently submerged
Keep water level consistent; avoid splashing foliage; ensure still water for root health.
Soil
Rich, loamy aquatic soil or heavy clay
pH: 6.0–7.5; slightly acidic to neutral.
Avoid sandy soils; compact soil lightly to prevent floating; top-dress annually with organic matter.
Temperature
Warm water (70–85°F/21–29°C); tolerates seasonal fluctuations but thrives in stable warmth.
Monitor water temperature regularly; adjust depth for insulation; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with aquatic plant fertilizer
Fertilize at root zone; reduce frequency in winter; use balanced NPK formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizome into sections with buds.
- Plant in submerged containers.
- Or sow seeds in waterlogged soil.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when water temperatures rise above 65°F (18°C).
Environment
Warm, still water; high humidity; partial shade for seedlings.
Medium
Pond soil or heavy loam with organic matter; submerged in water.
Hormone
Not required for rhizome division; optional for seeds to improve germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate growth; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, 6–12 months to mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, containers, pond soil, water.
Quick Tips
Ensure each rhizome section has a bud; keep water clean during seed germination; divide every 2–3 years.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems at the base; avoid tearing to prevent water contamination.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain water quality and aesthetics.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sterilize tools; dispose of clippings away from water.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure depth allows 6–12 inches of water above rhizome.
Method
Lift rhizome; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh pond soil with adequate depth.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when rhizomes outgrow the container.
Checklist
Prepare new soil; clean container; handle rhizome gently; maintain water level.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check water level daily; top up as needed; monitor for evaporation; ensure no splashing on leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly into the pond or container, ensuring the rhizome remains submerged; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf damage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water daily to maintain 6–12 inches of water above the rhizome; adjust for evaporation rates in hot weather.
Soil Improvement
Mix in compost or aged manure for nutrients; ensure soil is heavy enough to stay submerged.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, reduced flowering, or stunted growth in cold water; wilting or leaf burn in excessively warm water.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause dormancy or leaf dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a warmer location; use a water heater for ponds in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Accelerates water evaporation; may lead to dehydration or leaf scorch in water above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Increase water depth; provide shade during peak heat; mist foliage if grown in containers.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at recommended dosage; avoid contact with leaves; monitor for nutrient burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use pond tabs or slow-release fertilizer; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNymphaea odorata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicNymphaea odorata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though excessive ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicNymphaea odorata, commonly known as the fragrant water lily, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its roots or seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How deep should the water be for Nymphaea odorata?
A: The water should be 12–30 inches deep, with the crown planted in soil at the bottom.
Q: Does Nymphaea odorata require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily).
Q: Can Nymphaea odorata be grown in a small pond?
A: Yes, it can be grown in small ponds or containers as long as water depth and sunlight requirements are met.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Maintain water level at 30–6 |
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