Nymphaea alba
White Water Lily
Common names: White Lotus, Teichrose
Photo: DerHexer · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
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Description
The White Water Lily (Nymphaea alba) is a prominent pond plant with large, star‑shaped white flowers that lie flat on the water surface and close at dusk. It roots in the pond bottom, sending long stems up to the surface where glossy, round floating leaves spread. Blooming from June to September, each flower lasts several days. It is winter‑hardy in Germany as long as the rootstock does not freeze completely. The plant is mildly toxic, especially the rootstock, which can cause digestive discomfort if ingested.
Care instructions
Plant the White Water Lily in a specialized container with loamy pond soil to keep the root ball in place and maintain clear water. The correct depth is crucial: keep 40–100 cm of water above the crown, depending on the variety. Choose a full‑sun location; without at least five to six hours of direct light, flowering will be sparse. Regularly remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves to keep the pond clean and conserve the plant’s energy. Every three to four years, in early May (week 18–19), divide the rootstock to promote stronger growth.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
moist, nutrient-rich, loamy, clayey
Feeding
Medium feeder
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