White Water Lily
nymphaea ampla
Also known as: ["White Lotus","Egyptian White Water Lily"]
Overview
A species of aquatic flowering plant in the family Nymphaeaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Nymphaeales |
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus: | Nymphaea |
| Botanical Name: | Nymphaea ampla |
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":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: Rarely required; natural pond humidity sufficient
- Drainage: Slow-draining to waterlogged; roots submerged in water.
- Soil Type: Aquatic soil mix with loam, sand, and organic matter; no perlite for water gardens.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Monthly during growing season; as needed in winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in tropical climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate the pot for even growth; clean leaves regularly to maximize light absorption; avoid direct midday sun in arid climates.
Watering
Maintain water level 6–8 inches above rhizome, ensuring soil is consistently saturated
Keep water level consistent; avoid stagnant water; use rainwater or dechlorinated water.
Soil
Rich, loamy aquatic substrate with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.5; slightly acidic to neutral.
Avoid heavy clay; use heavy soil to prevent floating; replenish annually.
Temperature
65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Use a pond heater in cold climates; avoid placing in drafty areas; monitor water temperature weekly.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring–summer) with aquatic plant fertilizer
Apply fertilizer near rhizome base; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent algae; use balanced 10-10-10 formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizome sections with at least one bud.
- Plant in shallow water.
- Keep seeds moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and partially shaded; still water for seeds.
Medium
Loamy soil mixed with sand or aquatic planting medium.
Hormone
Not required for rhizome division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Rhizomes root in 2–4 weeks; seeds germinate in 3–6 weeks with establishment in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, aquatic planting container, soil mix, water thermometer.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep rhizome upright; change water weekly for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; trim flowers after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Aquatic scissors, gloves, small net for debris.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove yellowing leaves; clear debris 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 rhizome to sit just below water surface.
Method
Lift rhizome; trim roots if needed; place in new container with fresh soil; cover with 2–3 inches of water.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when rhizome outgrows container; prevents overcrowding.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; use fresh soil; adjust water level post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check water level daily; inspect for debris; ensure circulation; test water pH.
How to Apply Water Properly
Ensure water covers the rhizome but not the leaves; use a pond pump or hose to circulate water gently; water early morning to prevent algae growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water daily to maintain 6–12 inches of water above the rhizome; adjust for evaporation rates in hot or windy conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add compost for nutrients; use sand for weight; top-dress with aquatic plant tabs.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or buds failing to open.
Cold Stress
Growth halts; rhizome may rot if water freezes; leaves turn mushy or black.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate the pond with floating heaters or bubble wrap; reduce water level to protect rhizome.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flower drop; water evaporates rapidly.
Solution: Increase water circulation; provide shade during peak heat; mist leaves in early morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use pond tabs or liquid fertilizer 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 ingest parts of Nymphaea ampla, particularly the roots and rhizomes. The toxicity is generally low but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nymphaea ampla roots and rhizomes can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNymphaea ampla contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The rhizomes and roots are the primary toxic parts, containing substances 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 ampla?
A: The water depth should be between 30-90 cm (12-36 inches) for optimal growth.
Q: Does Nymphaea ampla require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: How often should I fertilize Nymphaea ampla?
A: Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall) using a specialized aquatic plant fertilizer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Maintain water level 6–8 inc |
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