The basics of tropical water lilies

Water lilies are a genus of aquatic plants from the family of Nymphaeaceae. Water lilies are also referred to as Nymphaea and come in types that are hardy or tropical. Note that Nymphaea is italicized because it is a genus. Therefore when writing a name of a water lily be sure to keep that in mind, e.g. Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ or for short N. ‘Foxfire’. You may also write a name as tropical water lily ‘Foxfire’. When speaking it is accepted to simply refer by the common name, e.g. Foxfire.

Utopia Aquatic focuses on tropical water lilies and these plants make breathtaking additions to ponds and water gardens. They stand out in pools of water because of their exotic look with blooms held above the water surface and floating foliage. They come in a variety of colors and many are even very fragrant. There are day bloomers, night bloomers, and even kinds that can self replicate (viviparous).

The minimum requirements for growing tropical water lilies are:

• Water temperature of at least 70°F
• Quality substrate–clay, sand, heavy garden soil
• Fertilizer–Aquatic plant tabs, Osmocote
• At least 6 hours of full sun
• Water depth around 18 inches; + or – a few inches is acceptable

Utopia Aquatic grows tropical water lilies in these conditions:

• Water temperature of at least 70°F
• Substrate: sand
• Fertilizer: Osmocote
• 8+ hours of full sun
• Water depth around 18 inches

For best results, plant in a 2 gallon container or larger. Fertilize every few weeks. Your tropical water lily will grow into an XL tropical water lily and reward you with extravagant blooms.

Filed under: Cultivation, Tropical water lilies