Dwarf Water Lily
nuphar pumila
Also known as: ["Dwarf Yellow Pond Lily","Small Yellow Water Lily"]
Overview
A small aquatic plant with yellow flowers and rounded leaves that float on the water surface.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Nymphaeales |
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus: | Nuphar |
| Botanical Name: | Nuphar pumila |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shallow water garden, pond, or container water garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight. Provide shade during peak afternoon hours in summer. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in hot climates; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
constantly moist, never allowed to dry out
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
peaty, loamy, or clay-rich aquatic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C). Prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent conditions during active growth.
Fertilizing
rarely required, once a year in spring if in a container
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes into sections with at least one bud.
- Plant seeds in a seed tray.
- Keep medium consistently moist.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins or after flowering in late summer.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, loamy soil with added perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for seeds to improve germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, several months to a year for establishment.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, seed trays, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizome sections have buds; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead foliage at the base using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
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 root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently to maintain soil moisture, especially during active growth periods. Reduce watering slightly in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or induce dormancy. Prolonged cold may damage roots or cause tissue injury.
Solution: Protect with a layer of mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor. High temperatures may stress the plant and inhibit flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early autumn). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Nuphar pumila. The toxic compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nuphar pumila can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of nupharin. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNuphar pumila 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: How deep should the water be for Nuphar pumila?
A: It thrives in water depths of 6-18 inches.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering.
Q: Is it invasive?
A: Generally not invasive, but it can spread in suitable conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nymphaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | constantly moist, never allowe |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
