Tropical Water Lilies

From the bright, radiant pink blooms and the red flares, to the unrivaled blue color of the King of Siam... There is no doubt that tropical water lilies have some of the most beautiful flowers known to the water garden. They truly make a great centerpiece to the pond, and add color to liven it up. 

Lilies are also a great addition to any pond because they provide the fish with hiding places and refuge from predators that may come their way. The lily pads form on the surface of the water and provide a good amount of coverage. This makes it more difficult for predators, such as blue herons to see your fish when flying overhead. In addition, it keeps the pond shaded and cooler, which in turn promotes higher oxygen levels within the pond.

Another quality unique to select tropical water lilies is the mystifying night bloomers. Red flares produce a breathtaking, dark pink bloom that can be enjoyed as soon as the sun begins to go down and until about noon on a cloudy day. A pond lit up at night with blooming tropical water lilies is truly a sight to see!

Be sure to remember that when planting tropical water lilies, the rhizome should be placed in the center of the container you are planting it in (unlike the hardy water lilies that get pushed up against the side of the container). By doing this it allows the roots more space to grow, and will even encourage the rhizome to root a little faster. They should also be regularly fertilized every three weeks throughout the season. This promotes new growth and ensures that your lily will produce beautiful blooms all summer long!