Nymphaea colorata (Tropical Water Lily)

Nymphaea colorata (Water Lily) is a day-blooming aquatic perennial boasting rounded green leaves, up to 8 in. (20 cm), adorned with bluish to purple undersides. Floating on the surface of the water, they create a lovely backdrop for the pinwheel-shaped flowers, 4-5 in. across (10-12 cm). Each blossom features wisteria blue, pointed petals (13-15) surrounding a conspicuous bouquet of purple stamens. Blooming all summer, Nymphaea colorata is a tropical nymphaea that is nonviviparous and free-flowering. It will continue to bloom when the temperature drops to 65ºF (18ºC).

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). This nymphaea is perfect for small to medium ponds and containers.
• Performs best in full sun in undisturbed water . Appreciates some part shade in hot summer areas where daytime temperatures reach 100ºF (35ºC). Needs protection from wind.
• Plant tubers in spring, preferably in a small container, after the water temperature has warmed to about 70ºF (21ºC). Feed every 2-3 weeks with a proprietary aquatic fertilizer.
• Deadhead and remove yellow leaves regularly.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for water-lily beetle, water lily aphid, brown china-mark moth, false leaf-mining midge, crown rot, brown spot and water lily leaf spot.
• Native to tropical East Africa. It was first described by A. Peter in 1928.