Species hardy water lily Guide
Off-white flowers with green leaves, yellow center and anthers.

hardy water lily

Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola'

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 10

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

watering

The hardy water lily, Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola', typically requires at least 3 inches of water above the roots, so it is important to make sure that the plants are situated in a pond that is deep enough to accommodate them, and that the plants are always kept submerged. This species of water lily needs plenty of sunshine in order to thrive and should be fertilized regularly, preferably with a water-soluble fertilizer once a month. Water lilies should be watered daily in order to ensure their root system is properly hydrated. The soil around the plants should be kept moist, but not soggy, and a water feature such as a fountain should be used to add oxygen to the water and to prevent stagnation. It's important to avoid over-watering and to keep the leaves and flowers of the water lily clean and free of debris, as this can lead to bacterial and fungal growth which can damage the plant. At least 1 to 2 inches of water should be added every week in order to maintain sufficient levels, which can be done manually or with the use of an automated system. Allowing for rainwater to enter the pond is a great way to naturally maintain optimal water levels.

sunlight

Hardy water lilies (Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola') require 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming. During this time, the plant should be in the full sunlight of midday, rather than partial shade. In areas that receive intense heat and direct sunlight, the lily should receive morning sun and be shaded from the intense afternoon sun. Also, the amount of sunlight depends on growing conditions, such as latitude, season, how much shade is available, etc. In general, a hardy water lily should be placed in an area where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours each day.

pruning

Hardy water lily (Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola') should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring. The plant should be pruned back to the water level to keep the plant from becoming overcrowded and promoting healthy new growth. Any dead or diseased foliage should be removed during pruning. Pruning at this time of the year also ensures that the plant will have plenty of room to spread in the summer months.