Scientific Name
Nymphaea alba L.
Synonym(s)
Nymphaea alba var. alba, Castalia alba, Castalia minoriflora, Castalia speciosa, Leuconymphaea alba, Nymphaea minoriflora, Nymphaea occidentalis
Common Name(s)
European White Water Lily, White Water Rose, White Nenuphar
Scientific Classification
Family: Nymphaeaceae
Genus: Nymphaea
Origin
Nymphaea alba is native to Europe.
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: June to September
Description
Nymphaea alba is an aquatic flowering plant that grows in water up to 5 feet (1.5 m) deep. It likes large ponds and lakes. Leaves are up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and take up a spread of 5 feet (1.5 m) per plant.
The flowers are white, have many small stamens, and bloom between June and September.
How to Grow and Care for Nymphaea alba
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 4a to 11a: from -30°F (-34.4°C) to 45°F (7.2°C).
Like any other perennial, each type of Water Lily may have specific needs regarding sunlight, soil, fertilization, water depth, and pruning. When shopping for Water Lilies, be sure to check the specific plant's requirements before deciding you must have it! Generally, Water Lilies require a minimum of four to five hours of full sun each day to produce the most blooms. They should be planted in a large, wide pot using a slightly acidic clay-loam mixture with a pH of 6.1-7.0. Commercial potting mixes often contain float amendments, so if you use a commercial mix, be sure it is specifically for aquatic plants! Adding a few goldfish to your pond will take care of most insect pests that attack aquatic plants and devour mosquito larvae.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Water Lilies.
Links
- Back to genus Nymphaea
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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