Waterlily-like pond plants are attractive aquatic perennials with leaves and flowers floating on the water, just like water lilies. They produce rhizomes, tubers and roots that grow in soil several inches to several feet below the water surface. They hold their small flowers on or above the water surface. However, they are not technically members of the waterlily family (Nymphaea). They differ in plant shape and habit, flower size and color.

Most of them bloom better in shade than do hardy or tropical waterlilies. They are a good substitute for waterlilies in containers or small ponds, particularly in shady locations where lilies will not grow. They can add color and dimension along the edges of marginal aquatic plants or between rushes. They can spread across the water's surface and form a carpet of low growing foliage. They are well suited for stream beds, bog gardens or tucked in between rocks along the edge of the water garden or pond.

It should be noted that waterlily-like pond plants can have very fast growth rates. Because of the aggressive nature of some of them, it is important to ensure that the plants you use in your pond or water garden are not invasive and are safe to grow in your location. Please contact your local department of fish and wildlife for more information on invasive species in your area.