Species water snowflake
White flower with hair and yellow center, green leaves and stems.

water snowflake

Nymphoides indica

Water snowflake (Nymphoides indica) is a aquatic plant belonging to the Menyanthaceae family. It is native to Asia and can often be found in still and slow-moving waters such as lakes, ponds, and ditches. The leaves are borne on long stalks and are circular to kidney-shaped, and waxy white and green in color. The plant produces clusters of small white flowers that are borne on slender stems above the water level. It can be grown in small aquariums, aquatic dishes and water gardens, and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 60 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It is an easy to care for, no-fuss plant that requires minimal maintenance.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Seed Propagation,Planting Runners,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 11

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water snowflakes (Nymphoides indica) should be watered thoroughly once a week. Make sure to check the soil before each watering, as the plant should only be watered when the top 2 inches of soil are completely dry. Water until the soil is saturated and run-off begins to come out of the pot's drainage holes. Withhold water and fertilizing during winter months when the plant is dormant.

sunlight

Water snowflake, or Nymphoides indica, thrives in full sun, ideally 6-8 hours a day during summer months. While this plant can tolerate some shade, full sun is necessary for optimal growth and flowering. Always place the plant in an area that gets direct sunlight when possible, protecting from too much midday sun during the hottest days. Hot afternoon sun can damage the delicate foliage, causing it to burn. During winter months the amount of sunlight will naturally decrease, so if the plant is receiving less than 4 hours of sunlight a day, it may need to be supplemented with artificial lighting.

pruning

Water snowflake should be pruned once the flowers have completely faded to maintain a neat, lush appearance. Pruning should be done light to moderate in nature and should be done in either the late spring or early summer. Trim back any dead or dying leaves or stems to keep the overall shape of the plant. To encourage bushier growth, you can trim back some of the longer stems. Doing so will also help the plant put its energy into developing new leaves and flowers. Finally, prune any stems that may be crossing or growing into other stems to ensure good airflow and prevent disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Nymphoides indica typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Nymphoides indica typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map