How deep should the water be for Nymphaea alba?
White Water-Lilies thrive in still or slow-moving water with a depth of 30 to 90 cm over their rhizomes for optimal growth and flowering.
European White Waterlily (Nymphaea alba)
Nymphaea alba, the White Water-Lily, is an aquatic perennial. It features large, fragrant white flowers and round, floating green leaves. Thrives in still or slow-moving
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours direct sun).
Watering
Requires still or slow-moving water 30-90 cm deep.
Soil
Heavy loam or clay soil, rich in organic matter.
Temperature
Ideal water temperature 15-25 °C.
Habitat
Outdoor, Aquatic
Fertilizer
Annually in spring with aquatic fertilizer tablets.
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours direct sun).
Water
Requires still or slow-moving water 30-90 cm deep.
Soil
Heavy loam or clay soil, rich in organic matter.
Temperature
Ideal water temperature 15-25 °C.
Habitat
Outdoor, Aquatic
Fertilizer
Annually in spring with aquatic fertilizer tablets.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Aquatic, Herb
Plant Category
Ornamental, Flowering
Plant Place Type
Garden, Pot
Plant Environment
Outdoor, Aquatic
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
0.5-2 m
Spread
1-2 m
Growth Rate
Moderate
Dormancy
Winter dormancy
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Simple, orbicular, floating
Flower Size
10-20 cm
Optimal Sunlight Lux
75000
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JanPeak fruit · Jan
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Leuconymphaea alba (L.) Kuntze
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classMagnoliopsida
- orderNymphaeales
- familyNymphaeaceae
- genusNymphaea
- speciesNymphaea alba
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
No
Rating: 0/5
Toxic for pets
No
Rating: 0/5
Edible
Yes
Generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. Rhizomes and seeds are edible after proper cooking or preparation.
Additional Care Tips
White Water-Lilies require still or slow-moving water, ideally 30-90 cm deep over the rhizome. Maintain consistent water levels, especially during hot periods, to ensure the leaves and flowers can float freely. Avoid strong currents which can damage the foliage and prevent establishment.
Propagate Nymphaea alba by dividing the rhizomes in late spring or early summer. Carefully lift the plant, cut a section of rhizome with at least one growing point and roots, and replant it in a pot filled with heavy loam. Alternatively, seeds can be collected and sown in warm water.
Repot water lilies every 2-3 years, or when they outgrow their container, typically in spring. Lift the plant, trim back excess rhizome, and replant in a larger aquatic basket or pot using heavy clay loam. This rejuvenates the plant and prevents it from becoming root-bound, promoting better flowering.
FAQs
What kind of soil does a White Water-Lily need?
They require a heavy loam or clay-based soil, rich in organic matter, planted at the bottom of the pond or in an aquatic container.
How often should I fertilize my water lily?
Fertilize established plants annually in spring or early summer using specialized aquatic fertilizer tablets inserted into the soil around the rhizome.
Why are my water lily leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate nutrient deficiency, overcrowding, or simply the natural aging process. Remove old, yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
Can Nymphaea alba survive winter?
Yes, Nymphaea alba is a hardy perennial. In colder climates, it enters winter dormancy, with its rhizome surviving at the bottom of the pond, provided the water does not freeze solid.