Nuphar lutea subsp. advena (Yellow Pond Lily)

Nuphar lutea subsp. advena (Yellow Pond Lily) is an impressive emergent aquatic perennial boasting large, shiny, rich green, heart-shaped leaves, 4-16 in. across (10-40 cm), with a deep notch where the stem is attached. They usually rise above the water, although sometimes they float on the water’s surface. They are attached to long, stout stems, up to 6 ft. long (180 cm), which arise from large, spongy rhizomes. From spring to fall, fragrant, round and cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm) appear atop stout stems that emerge a few inches from the water. Fleshy, they feature 3 yellow sepals, 3 green sepals, and a prominent, lobed stigma. Blooming in succession for about 4-5 days, they partially open in the morning and close at night. They are followed by an ovoid fruit that split open when ripe, thus releasing their seeds. Yellow Pond Lily can spread aggressively by very long creeping rhizomes rooted in the mud, producing vegetative colonies in shallow water. It is suitable for a wetland garden, pondside, or lakeshore in shallow water.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm). This plant will invade any body of water by self-seeding and spreading rhizomes.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in 1-3 ft. of water (30-90 cm). Grow in containers for water gardens. Plant rhizomes directly in the muddy bottom if naturalization is desired.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Can be difficult to eradicate if not grown in containers.
• Propagate by division or seed.
• Native throughout the eastern United States and in some parts of Canada.