Introducing...
Waterlilies
Botanical name: Nymphaea
Instantly recognisable, waterlilies are possibly the most sought after of all aquatic plants. There is a vast array to choose from, for ponds large and small, with summer flowers in various colours.
Looks
The sumptuous bowl-shaped blooms come in various colours and sizes. They float on the water, or stand just above it, throughout the summer months, surrounded by flat circular leaves.
Likes
Hardy waterlilies like a sunny spot in a still pond, with enough space to accommodate their size, whether large, medium or small. They are vigorous plants, so benefit from an annual feed. Tropical waterlilies need warm conditions.
Dislikes
Waterlilies won’t perform well when overcrowded or congested, so give them plenty of space and divide every few years. They dislike flowing water. Tropical waterlilies can’t survive in cold water.
Did you know?
Plants such as waterlilies not only improve the look of a pond, they also improve its health and value to wildlife too. They provide shelter for many types of pondlife and cast shade that deters algae. They should ideally cover about half the surface area.
Growing guide
How to grow waterlilies
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for waterlilies in your garden.
Waterlilies we recommend
Nymphaea 'Gladstoniana' (H)
waterlily 'Gladstoniana'
- Up to 10cm
- 1.5–2.5 metres
Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola' (H)
waterlily 'Pygmaea Helvola'
- Up to 10cm
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Nymphaea 'Gladstoniana' (H)
waterlily 'Gladstoniana'
- Up to 10cm
- 1.5–2.5 metres
Nymphaea 'Pygmaea Helvola' (H)
waterlily 'Pygmaea Helvola'
- Up to 10cm
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Aquatic plants: planting
Pond care
Pond plant propagation
Waterlily invertebrates
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.