Nymphaea Alba White Lily Waterlily

Waterlilies prefer calm, still water, away from fountains, pumps, cascades or other turbulence. Plant N. Alba water lilies in full sun to promote flowering. They are best planted in aquatic compost, or heavy clay-based loam, in an aquatic basket. Nymphaea Alba is Britain’s only native water lily and has handsome green foliage and white, but not prolific, flowers. Best grown about 1 metre deep, but it can grow in up to 3 metres of water if allowed to adjust very gradually, since its growth rate at these depths will be significantly slower.

Nymphaea Alba white water lily are an excellent choice of pond plant for any size of pond. Plant Nymphaea Alba in still water away from splashing fountains. Lower the water lily gradually so the leaves can stretch to the surface within a few days. Remove dead leaves and flowers during the growing season. Lily spread and planting depths are provided as a guide only, with the depth being the amount of water above the crown. In shallow water excessive leaf growth will rise above the surface and reduce flower blooms. The leaves of lilies shade the pond providing shelter for fish from predators such as herons, and reducing sunlight exposure to prevent algae growth.

How do you look after water lilies in the winter?

For hardy water lily plants, the key to over-wintering water lilies like the N. Alba is to move them to the deepest part of your pond. This will insulate the water lilly plant a little from repeated freezing and thawing which limit your water lily’s chance of surviving the cold. For a helpful guide to planting and maintaining water lily pond plants please click here.