About
Nymphaea candida is a resilient and compact waterlily species, typically growing to a width and depth of approximately 50 cm. Its foliage consists of dark green pads that provide a vivid contrast to its flowers. From June to September, it produces small white blooms featuring a yellow center. Cultivars of this species vary in size: Dwarf and small types expand to 30–60 cm (1–2 ft) wide and thrive in water depths of 30–45 cm (12–18 in). Medium varieties can reach widths of 60–120 cm (2–4 ft) and prefer water levels between 45–75 cm (18–30 in). Larger cultivars can extend up to 2.4 m (8 ft) wide, requiring water depths of 75–120 cm (30 in–4 ft). For optimal growth, refer to the guidelines provided on the plant label for appropriate planting depth in your aquatic environment.
About the genus
Nymphaea consists of rhizomatous, aquatic perennials that grow beneath the water's surface. They produce rounded, floating leaves and notable cup- or bowl-shaped flowers, which can be fragrant and appear in various colors. These blooms are positioned on or above the water and give way to submerged fruits resembling berries.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
- Plant type
- Aquatic
- Habit
- Floating, Submerged
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in undisturbed water in full sun. Plant in baskets in loamy soil with crowns just below soil surface and covered with pea shingle. Position basket so that it is covered by 15-25cm of water; as the plants establish gradually lower the plants to a depth of 50-60cm. See hardy waterlily cultivation for more advice
- Pruning
- Deadhead and remove yellow leaves regularly
- Propagation
- Propagate by division of rhizomes or offsets in summer, place pots in shallow water until established. See pond plant propagation
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to brown china-mark moth, false leaf-mining midge, water lily beetle and water lily aphid. See waterlily pests for more details
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to crown rot, brown spot and water lily leaf spot