Water lilies, or pond lilies, are the jewels of any pond garden. Their lovely flowers and green leaves cover ponds with a serene, living masterpiece. Most people have an idea about well-known water lily types, like the standard white or pink types, but there are actually thousands of varieties of water lilies that exist throughout the world, which are definitely worth observing.
Here we will discuss in this guide some lesser-known types of pond lily, exploring their quirky attributes, origins, and requirements. Whether you're a veteran at pond keeping or are just starting, these will motivate you to push your water garden to the next level.
1. Nymphaea 'Blue Beauty'
As one of the most stunning
types of pond lily, Nymphaea 'Blue Beauty' features bright violet-blue petals with a shining yellow center. In contrast to hardy lilies, this tropical treasure loves hot weather and flowers from spring to fall. It's also adorned with a rich, sweet scent that pollinators won't be able to resist.
- Deep blue color is not known on pond lilies
- Night-blooming and very fragrant
- Perfect for tropical and subtropical water gardens
2. Nymphaea 'Queen of Siam'
A regal beauty in any water garden, Queen of Siam boasts intense magenta flowers with flamboyant red hues. Exotic-looking, this lily is highly fragrant and develops numerous flowers on each plant. Bronze-colored tinted leaves add even more contrast and beauty.
- Rich, deep color
- High-frequency blooming tropical species
- Attractive foliage creates depth in water gardens
3. Nymphaea gigantea (Giant Blue Water Lily)
A rare Australian plant, it's a large and exotic form of water lily. Its spread is up to 6 feet, and blooms almost a foot in diameter. The petals are pale to deep blue and shine in early morning mist.
- Large natural ponds
- Wildlife ponds (attract frogs and insects)
- Gardeners looking for a showpiece plant
4. Nymphaea 'Tina'
Ideal for smaller gardens and container ponds, Tina is a dwarf tropical lily with beautiful, rich violet-blue flowers and gold stamens. It also flowers well into twilight hours, thus perfect for twilight gardeners.
- Ideal for smaller ponds
- One of the longest-flowering tropical hybrids
- Low care and long-lasting
5. Nymphaea thermarum (The World's Smallest Water Lily)
Native to Rwanda and previously declared extinct in the wild, Nymphaea thermarum is a horticultural marvel. It produces leaves no larger than a few inches in diameter and small flowers. It's better suited to aquariums and lab cultivation than ponds in open water.
Interesting Fact: It's currently being preserved by botanical gardens worldwide for its scientific value and as a rare plant.
6. Nymphaea 'Midnight'
Midnight is a dark, dramatic tropical water lily with deep purple, nearly black flowers. Set against the green lily pad background, its dark color makes a lasting impression.
- Uncommon coloration not typically available in water lilies
- Exotic and not typically sold commercially
- High-demand choice for high-end aquatic landscaping
7. Nymphaea 'Red Flare'
This showy variety blooms in the evening and closes mid-morning, providing an impressive sight of glowing red flowers. It is commonly utilized in garden plans for night beauty.
- Evening-blooming tropical lily
- Vibrant red color represents love and desire
- Needs warm water and full sun
8. Victoria amazonica (Amazon Water Lily)
Technically not a Nymphaea, but no mention of exotic water lilies would be complete without a mention of the mammoth Amazon lily. Its leaves grow to 10 feet in diameter and are large enough to hold small animals on their surfaces. This beauty is fragile and glorious, located in the Amazon Basin.
Warning: It isn't easy to cultivate and is best reserved for big conservatories or horticultural exhibits.
Selecting Exotic Pond Lilies for Your Garden
Although these unusual pond lilies are a mystical sight, they generally have specific needs. Tropical pond lilies generally require warmer water, deeper pools, and greater sunlight than hardy pond lilies. If you live in a cooler climate, greenhouses or heated ponds may be used to provide these treasures year-round.
In choosing unusual or exotic varieties of pond lilies, you must consider:
- Climate compatibility (tropical or hardy)
- Flowering time (day or night flowering)
- Scent intensity
- Size of the flowers and leaf width
Conclusion
Pond lilies are rare and exotic lilies, and these provide unlimited opportunities to redesign your water garden and create a unique masterpiece. Every type of pond lily is diverse and beautiful, with large ones like
Victoria amazonica to miniature lilies like
Nymphaea thermarum. Are you captivated by the bold colors, deep historical ties, or even rarity? You are bound to find a water lily that delights you.
When it comes to high-end water lilies and knowledge of their usage, do not look anywhere but
SAIWC to give you the best of both worlds. Check out their water lily guide and learn more about these fascinating plants, and begin your water adventure now!