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Description
Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra, also known as Dwarf Red Water Lily, is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family. It is native to Africa and Madagascar and is commonly found in shallow freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant has green leaves that are circular in shape and can grow up to 5-10 cm in diameter. The leaves have a slightly reddish hue on the underside, which gives the plant its distinctive appearance. The flowers of Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra are bright red and have a diameter of around 3-4 cm. The flowers bloom during the summer months and are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
Appearance
Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra is a small aquatic plant with circular green leaves that can grow up to 5-10 cm in diameter. The leaves have a slightly reddish hue on the underside, which gives the plant its distinctive appearance. The flowers of Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra are bright red and have a diameter of around 3-4 cm. The flowers bloom during the summer months and are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra prefers to be submerged in water between 15-30 cm deep. Keep the water clean and free from debris to prevent disease.- Fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer tablet once a month during the growing season (spring-summer).- Soil: Use a heavy clay soil or a specific aquatic planting mix.- Sunlight: Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that may arise include:- Aphids: These small insects can be controlled by spraying the leaves with a mixture of water and dish soap.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can be prevented by keeping the water clean and free from debris.- Root rot: This disease can be prevented by using a heavy clay soil or a specific aquatic planting mix.
Habitat
Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra is native to Africa and Madagascar and is commonly found in shallow freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers warm water temperatures and can tolerate a range of water conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra?
A: Use a slow-release fertilizer tablet once a month during the growing season (spring-summer).
Q: What is the ideal water depth for Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra?
A: Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra prefers to be submerged in water between 15-30 cm deep.
Q: What hardiness zones can Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra grow in?
A: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: Is Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to aphids, leaf spot, and root rot.
Related Plants
– Nymphaea Alba (White Water Lily)- Nymphaea Caerulea (Blue Lotus)- Nymphaea Odorata (Fragrant Water Lily)- Nymphaea Mexicana (Mexican Water Lily)
References
– “Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra” Plant Care Guide, Pond Plants Online.- “Dwarf Red Water Lily” The Pond Guy.- “Nymphaea Tetragona Pygmaea Rubra” Aquarium Gardens.
