Dwarf Water Lily

Nymphaea "pygmaea helvola" is a charming miniature water lily, ideal for small ponds and patio containers. This beautiful, free-flowering plant requires a sunny aspect with slow-moving or still water. The flat rounded floating leaves are olive-green in colour with purple/brown variegations, and reach just 12cm (4.7") across. During the summer, the plant produces pretty pastel yellow cup-shaped flowers that are held just above the water"s surface. These blooms are 3cm (1.2") in size, have a delicate scent, and in bright conditions will open up fully to a star shape, showing off the brighter yellow stamens in the center. Each plant will spread to 30-45cm (12-18"), which makes it ideal for smaller ponds. Plant up into small pond baskets filled with aquatic soil and a top layer of pea gravel, ensuring that the crown of the plant sits just under the very surface of the planting medium. Position the basket so that it is covered by 10cm (3.9") of water initially, moving it gradually to its maximum recommended depth as it becomes established. Be sure to deadhead and remove any yellow leaves regularly, and feed during the growing season with an aquatic fertilizer spike. This plant will return to a dormant state during the winter when leaf cover will become sparse. If grown in a shallow pool that may freeze solid in winter, it will require overwintering in a greenhouse. Propagation is from seed or division, the latter being the easiest option during late spring. Plant the divided clumps into small baskets and submerge them in shallow water until established enough to be moved into their desired position.

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