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Description
Victoria, also known as the Victoria water lily or Victoria amazonica, is a stunning aquatic plant native to the Amazon basin in South America. It is known for its gigantic circular leaves that can grow up to 8 feet in diameter and its beautiful flowers that bloom at night and emit a sweet fragrance. Victoria is a popular plant for water gardens and ponds due to its striking appearance and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Victoria |
Appearance
Victoria has enormous circular leaves that can grow up to 8 feet in diameter and have upturned edges that can hold up to 100 pounds. The leaves are green and have a waxy texture to repel water, which helps them float on the surface of the water. The plant also produces large, fragrant flowers that can be up to 12 inches in diameter and are white or pink in color. The flowers only bloom at night and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Victoria can grow up to 6 feet tall and spreads out to cover a large area.
Care Guide
Victoria requires specific care in order to thrive in a water garden or pond. Here are some important care tips:
- Water: Victoria requires warm water with a temperature between 75-85°F. Change the water regularly to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
- Fertilization: Add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil at the base of the plant every few months during the growing season.
- Soil: Victoria prefers a soil that is rich in nutrients and has a pH between 6.5-7.5.
- Sunlight: Victoria requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to grow and bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Victoria can only survive in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Victoria is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Red Spider Mites: These tiny mites can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out. Use a miticide to get rid of them.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause flowers and leaves to turn brown and wilt. Remove infected parts of the plant and use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Victoria is native to the Amazon basin in South America and can be found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and lakes. It prefers warm water and a humid environment with plenty of sunlight. The plant is also cultivated in water gardens and ponds around the world for its striking appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I change the water in my Victoria pond?
A: You should change the water every 2-3 weeks to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
Q: Can Victoria survive in cold climates?
A: No, Victoria can only survive in hardiness zones 9-11, which have warm temperatures year-round.
Q: How long does it take for Victoria flowers to bloom?
A: Victoria flowers only bloom at night and can take up to 5 days to fully open.
Q: How much sunlight does Victoria need?
A: Victoria requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to grow and bloom properly.
Related Plants
- Water lily (Nymphaea)
- Lotus (Nelumbo)
- Water hyacinth (Eichhornia)
- Water lettuce (Pistia)
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Victoria Amazonica. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1111097/details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Victoria amazonica. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287947&isprofile=0&cv=6
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Victoria amazonica. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19933/victoria-amazonica/details
