Contents
1. Description
Nymphaea Lotus, commonly known as the Egyptian white water lily, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family. It is native to Africa, the Middle East, and southern Asia. The plant thrives in standing water and can grow up to 30 inches in height.The leaves of the Nymphaea Lotus are large, round, and green, with a diameter of up to 14 inches. The plant produces fragrant white flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers have yellow centers and can be up to 8 inches in diameter. The plant’s rhizomes are edible and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
3. Appearance
The Nymphaea Lotus has large, round, green leaves that float on the surface of the water. The leaves are up to 14 inches in diameter and have a waxy coating that repels water. The plant produces fragrant white flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers have yellow centers and can be up to 8 inches in diameter.The plant’s rhizomes are long and thin, with a length of up to 6 inches. The rhizomes are edible and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The plant’s roots are long and fibrous, and they anchor the plant in the soil at the bottom of the water.
4. Care Guide
To care for the Nymphaea Lotus, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips:- Water: The plant needs to be grown in standing water that is at least 6 inches deep. The water should be changed regularly to prevent the buildup of algae.- Fertilization: The plant needs to be fertilized regularly to ensure healthy growth. Use a water-soluble fertilizer, and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.- Soil: The plant does not need soil, but you can add a layer of gravel or sand to the bottom of the container to anchor the roots.- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun for at least 6 hours a day. If the plant is grown indoors, use artificial lighting to provide the necessary sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
The Nymphaea Lotus is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and discolored. Use a miticide to control the infestation.- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant’s leaves to turn yellow and wilt. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
6. Habitat
The Nymphaea Lotus is native to Africa, the Middle East, and southern Asia. It grows in standing water, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant can be grown indoors in a container filled with water.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the Nymphaea Lotus plant?
A: Yes, the plant’s rhizomes are edible and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.Q: How often should I change the water in my Nymphaea Lotus container?
A: You should change the water at least once a week to prevent the buildup of algae.Q: Can the Nymphaea Lotus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a container filled with water.Q: What is the ideal temperature for the Nymphaea Lotus?
A: The plant prefers warm temperatures and does best in temperatures between 70-85°F.
9. Related Plants
Other related plants in the Nymphaeaceae family include:- Nymphaea alba (European white water lily)- Nymphaea caerulea (blue lotus)- Nymphaea gigantea (giant water lily)- Nuphar lutea (yellow water lily)
10. References
– “Nymphaea lotus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 October 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c271- “Nymphaea lotus.” Plant of the Week. University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. Accessed 22 October 2021. https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/egyptian-white-water-lily-8-3-12.aspx- “Water Lilies.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 October 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=497
