Nymphaea alba
Am I evergreen?
No, the plant loses its leaves in the autumn and only comes back in the spring. So, it is not an evergreen plant.
How many degrees of winter hardiness am I?
This plant is hardy up to approximately -5 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to protect the plant from severe frost in colder climates. It is advisable to bring the plant indoors or cover it with straw or leaves during the winter.
Am I easy to maintain?
This plant is generally easy to maintain and thrives well in a water-rich environment. Regularly removing dead leaves and occasional fertilizing is enough to keep the plant healthy. It is important to place the plant in a sunny spot for optimal growth.
How much space do I need?
The water lily needs at least 1 square meter of space to grow and bloom properly. Make sure the plant has enough space to spread sideways. A spacious water depth of 30-60 cm is also important for the optimal growth of this plant.
Do I grow well in the shade?
This water lily thrives best in full sun and may not do as well in the shade. It is important for the plant to receive sufficient sunlight to grow and bloom effectively. Therefore, plant the water lily in a spot in the garden where it will receive plenty of sunlight daily.
How many times a week do I need water?
The plant needs regular watering, especially during warm and dry periods. It is advisable to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Generally, the plant needs water about 1-2 times a week.
Am I a butterfly and a bee attractant?
Yes, this plant is attractive to butterflies and bees due to the fragrant flowers and abundant nectar they produce. It can be a valuable addition to a garden to attract these beneficial pollinators.
Am I good for biodiversity?
Yes, the water lily is good for biodiversity because it is an important food source for insects and small animals. Additionally, it provides shade and protection for fish and other water creatures, creating a diverse ecosystem in the pond.
In which months do I bloom and for how long?
This plant usually blooms in the months of June to September and the blooming period can last from a few days to a few weeks.
Can I tolerate full sun?
This water lily thrives well in full sun and requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. It is important to give the plant enough water to prevent dehydration. Therefore, plant the water lily preferably in a water feature that receives enough sunlight.
Am I edible?
The plant Nymphaea alba is not edible. It is also not recommended to consume any parts of this plant. It is intended as a decorative garden plant and not for consumption.
Am I sound deadening?
Yes, the water lily is known for its sound-absorbing properties thanks to its large leaves that absorb sound waves. This makes it a great choice for reducing ambient noise in the garden.