White Water Lily
nymphaea candida
Also known as: ["White Water Poppy","White Lotus"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic plant with large, floating leaves and fragrant white flowers that bloom on the water surface.
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 candida |
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":"4–10"}
- Misting: Not required; natural pond humidity sufficient
- Drainage: Slow-draining to waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Heavy loam or aquatic plant soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically every 2–4 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing damaged or old foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak summer hours; ensure proper placement in ponds or containers.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct midday sun in summer; rotate container plants for even growth; use shade cloth if needed.
Watering
Maintain water level at 30–60 cm above rhizomes, ensuring consistent hydration
Water deeply to reach the root zone; avoid overwatering to prevent rot; ensure water quality is suitable for aquatic growth.
Soil
Heavy clay or loamy soil at bottom of pond
pH: 6.0–7.5.
Use heavy soil to prevent floating; avoid sandy mixes that drain too quickly; enrich with compost if needed.
Temperature
Warm water (20–30°C); cooler temperatures (15–20°C) during dormancy; adjust for seasonal changes.
Monitor water temperature; adjust depth for insulation; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with aquatic plant fertilizer tablets
Insert tablets near roots, not directly into them; avoid overfertilization to prevent algae growth; use slow-release formulations.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; seed propagation is less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizome sections with at least one bud.
- Plant in aquatic soil.
- Submerge to appropriate depth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, stable water temperature; moderate sunlight; high humidity.
Medium
Aquatic soil or heavy loam with organic matter.
Hormone
Not required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots establish within 2–4 weeks; full growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, aquatic soil, container.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has a bud; plant at the correct depth; maintain stable water conditions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowing or decaying leaves at the base; trim spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain water quality and aesthetics.
Tools
Aquatic scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sanitize tools; dispose of trimmings away from the pond.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh aquatic soil with adequate drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the rhizome outgrows its container.
Checklist
Prepare new container; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; ensure proper water depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check water depth daily; monitor evaporation; adjust for seasonal changes; ensure water quality.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly over the rhizome and root zone; ensure water depth remains stable; avoid splashing foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently to maintain 6–12 inches of water above the rhizome; adjust based on evaporation rates and seasonal changes.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter for fertility; ensure soil is heavy enough to hold rhizome in place.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or premature dormancy.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause leaf damage or dormancy.
Solution: Move to warmer water; provide insulation for containers; reduce feeding during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Accelerates evaporation; may cause leaf scorch or wilting.
Solution: Increase water depth; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate aeration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dosage instructions; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use aquatic plant fertilizer tablets; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the roots or seeds of Nymphaea candida. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nymphaea candida roots or seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. Symptoms are typically not severe unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNymphaea candida contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The roots and seeds are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How deep should the water be for Nymphaea candida?
A: It thrives in water depths of 30-90 cm (12-36 inches).
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it prefers full sun for optimal flowering.
Q: Can it be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container pond or water garden.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Maintain water level at 30–6 |
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