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Nymphaea alba
Nymphaea alba
Nymphaea alba
Nymphaea alba

Nymphaea alba

TAXONOMY

FamilyNymphaeaceae
GenusNymphaea
Zone4

ABOUT

Nymphaea alba, commonly known as the European white water lily, is a perennial aquatic plant native to temperate regions of Europe and parts of North Africa and Asia. It thrives in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds and lakes. The plant has large, round leaves that float on the water's surface and produces fragrant white flowers. It undergoes a dormancy period during the colder months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Castalia Biradiata
Castalia Speciosa
European White Waterlily
Nenufar
Castalia alba
Castalia minoriflora
Leuconymphaea alba
Nymphaea alba subsp. minoriflora
Nymphaea alba var. alba
Nymphaea alba var. rubra
Nymphaea basniniana
Nymphaea biradiata
Nymphaea erythrocarpa
Nymphaea exumbonata
Nymphaea kosteletzkyi
Nymphaea melocarpa
Nymphaea milletii
Nymphaea minoriflora
Nymphaea neglecta
Nymphaea occidentalis
Nymphaea officinalis
Nymphaea parviflora
Nymphaea permixta
Nymphaea polystigma
Nymphaea rotundifolia
Nymphaea splendens
Nymphaea suaveolens
Nymphaea urceolata
Nymphaea venusta

OVERVIEW

WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity70%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Nymphaea alba requires full sunlight for optimal growth and should be placed in a location where it can receive direct bright light for several hours a day. It thrives in moderate temperatures and high humidity. The plant should be kept in consistently wet conditions, ideally in a pond or water garden. Regular pruning of old leaves and spent flowers is recommended to maintain plant health.
Soil
Nymphaea alba prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be placed in a container submerged in water, ensuring that the plant's rhizomes are anchored securely. Good drainage is not a concern as the plant thrives in waterlogged conditions.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically from spring to early autumn. Fertilizer tablets designed for aquatic plants can be placed in the soil near the plant's roots.
Repotting
Repotting is necessary every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. To repot, carefully remove the plant from its current container, divide the rhizomes if necessary, and place them in a larger container with fresh loamy soil. Submerge the container in water immediately after repotting.
Propagation
Nymphaea alba can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes. This is best done in early spring before the growing season begins. Carefully cut the rhizomes into sections, ensuring each section has at least one growing point, and plant them in separate containers submerged in water.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to remove old, yellowing leaves and spent flowers. This helps to prevent decay and maintain the plant's health. Prune regularly during the growing season by cutting the stems close to the base of the plant.
Toxicity
Nymphaea alba is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, it is always advisable to prevent pets from chewing on any plant material.
Additional
Ensure that the water in which Nymphaea alba is grown is clean and free from pollutants. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and treat them promptly to prevent infestations.
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