Japanese Pond Lily Nuphar japonica
ABOUT
Nuphar japonica, commonly known as the Japanese pond lily, is a visually distinctive aquatic plant. Its most recognizable feature is its bright yellow flowers, which bloom above the water surface and have a distinctive shape reminiscent of a small open cup or bowl. Each flower consists of numerous petals surrounding a central cluster of stamens and a prominent, flat-topped stigma. The leaves of the Japanese pond lily are also a noteworthy feature; they are large, rounded, or heart-shaped with a glossy, green surface and sometimes a slightly waxy texture. They emerge on long, flexible stalks that attach to the plant's underwater rhizome. This allows the leaves to float gracefully on the water's surface, creating a canopy of green. The underside of the leaves is often a lighter green and may have prominent veins running through it. The overall growth habit of the Japanese pond lily is spreading, as it tends to colonize areas of calm freshwater with its creeping rhizomes that give rise to new leaf and flower shoots. The plant plays a crucial role in its habitat, providing shelter and shade for aquatic life while also contributing to the aesthetic beauty of ponds and slow-moving water bodies where it is commonly found.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Nymphaeaceae.
Synonyms
East Asian Yellow Pond Lily, Japanese Pond Lily, Asian Spatterdock.
Common names
Nymphaea japonica, Nuphar oguraensis, Nuphar pumila var. japonica, Nuphar pumila subsp. japonica.
ToxicityTo humans
Nuphar japonica, commonly known as East Asian yellow pond lily, contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. The main toxic components are nuphar alkaloids, which are present in all parts of the plant. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headache. In severe cases, it can potentially lead to more serious consequences such as respiratory distress or cardiac arrhythmias. It is essential to avoid consuming any part of the East Asian yellow pond lily, and seek immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs.
To pets
The East Asian yellow pond lily, also known as Nuphar japonica, is toxic to pets. All parts of the plant contain nuphar alkaloids, which can cause poisoning in animals. Symptoms of ingestion by pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and drooling. Severe cases might lead to more serious conditions like tremors, seizures, or heart problems. It is crucial to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to seek veterinary care promptly if they do.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Nuphar japonica, commonly known as the Yellow water-lily, adds ornamental beauty to water gardens and ponds with its floating leaves and distinctive flowers.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It provides a habitat and breeding ground for aquatic organisms and insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- Water Quality: Through root systems and foliage, Yellow water-lilies can help stabilize sediment and potentially contribute to clearer water in their natural habitat.
- Erosion Control: The root system can help reduce erosion by stabilizing soil in and around water bodies.
- Shade and Cooling: The broad leaves cast shade over the water, which can help regulate water temperature and offer a cool refuge for aquatic life.
- Oxygenation: Though primarily known for its ornamental and ecological benefits, like many aquatic plants, it may contribute to oxygenating the water, benefiting fish and other aquatic organisms.
- Recreational Fishing: Dense patches of these plants can be favorable spots for fish, potentially improving fishing experiences in their natural environment.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Nuphar japonica contains compounds that may exhibit antioxidant effects.
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies have suggested the plant may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antimicrobial: There is research indicating potential antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nuphar japonica, commonly known as East Asian yellow pond-lily, can be used as an ornamental water plant in ponds and water gardens to provide an aesthetic appeal.
- The large leaves of East Asian yellow pond-lily create shade over water which can help reduce algae growth by limiting the light available for photosynthesis.
- The fibrous rhizomes of the plant have been traditionally used to make woven mats and other handicrafts in some cultures.
- The seeds of the East Asian yellow pond-lily can be used as a natural bead substitute in jewelry making due to their size and hardness after drying.
- The dried seed pods can be used in floral arrangements and as decorative elements in crafts due to their unique appearance.
- The plant can be used as a biological indicator for water quality monitoring, as it thrives in nutrient-rich waters which indicate a high level of eutrophication.
- East Asian yellow pond-lily's dense root systems can stabilize sediment in water bodies, helping to prevent soil erosion around the edges of ponds and lakes.
- In some regions, the dried and pressed leaves are used artistically for botanical prints and nature-inspired art projects.
- The yellow flowers of the plant can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics and materials.
- The floating leaves offer a habitat for aquatic insects and provide a laying ground for the eggs of certain species of frogs and other amphibians.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Nuphar japonica, commonly known as East Asian yellow water-lily, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe East Asian yellow water-lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Isolation: Given its preference for growing alone or in small, separate clusters, Nuphar japonica is often symbolic of isolation or the enjoyment of solitude.
- Uniqueness: The distinct shape and color of the flower can represent uniqueness or standing out from the crowd.
- Peace: Nuphar japonica grows in calm waters, making it a symbol for peace, tranquility, and calmness.
- Purity: Similar to other water lilies, it is often associated with purity due to its ability to grow in muddy waters while remaining unsoiled.
- Enlightenment: In eastern cultures, lotus-like flowers are often associated with spiritual enlightenment and the flowering of one's spiritual potential.
WaterFor the Japanese pond lily, it's essential to maintain a consistent water level around the plant as it grows in aquatic environments. The plant typically needs to be submerged in at least 12 inches of water. The frequency of adding water will depend on the rate of evaporation and water usage in your garden's ecosystem, which can vary by season and local climate. Aim to check the water level weekly and top up as needed to keep the plant submerged. It is not necessary to measure the water in onzes or gallons precisely, as the key is to keep the plant in a stable aquatic environment.
LightJapanese pond lilies thrive best in full sunlight to partial shade. They should be placed in a spot where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, although they can tolerate some shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. Avoid keeping the plants in deep shade, as this can hinder their growth and blooming potential.
TemperatureFor Japanese pond lilies, the ideal temperature range is between 70°F and 85°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 90°F, but growth may be inhibited outside of the ideal range. These plants are not frost-tolerant, so if they are kept in regions where the temperature drops below freezing, they will need protective measures in winter months.
PruningPruning the Japanese pond lily involves removing yellow or dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain its appearance and encourage healthy growth. Pruning is best done during the growing season, from spring to fall. Regular maintenance may be required every few weeks to keep the plant tidy and to allow for proper light penetration and air circulation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe East Asian Yellow Pond Lily thrives in loamy, nutrient-rich wet soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. A mix of garden soil and compost with some sand for drainage mimics its natural habitat.
RepottingThe East Asian Yellow Pond Lily should generally be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container, usually in the spring before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingThe East Asian Yellow Pond Lily naturally grows in aquatic environments, implying a preference for high humidity levels, typically 60% and above.
Suitable locationsIndoor
It's challenging to grow East Asian Yellow Pond Lily indoors due to its size and water needs.
Outdoor
Plant in a pond or marshy area, full sun to part shade, consistently wet soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleNuphar japonica, commonly known as East Asian yellow pond-lily, starts its life cycle as seeds which germinate underwater to form a root system and small leaves. These juvenile leaves initially float on the surface, but as the plant matures, larger, heart-shaped leaves grow, which can rise above the water level on stiff stalks. The East Asian yellow pond-lily then develops distinctive yellow flowers that float on the water or extend slightly above it during the flowering season. After pollination, often facilitated by insects, the flowers turn into green bottle-shaped fruits, which contain numerous seeds. Once ripe, the fruits release the seeds back into the water, continuing the cycle as they settle into the substratum, ready to germinate and form new plants. Over time, this perennial plant can form extensive colonies through both seed dispersion and vegetative reproduction by rhizomes, which also overwinter for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The Spatterdock, or Nuphar japonica, is typically propagated through division of rhizomes. This is the most popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Rhizome division is generally done in the spring or autumn. During this process, the gardener carefully digs up the parent plant and locates the rhizomes, which are the horizontal stems running underground. Using a sharp knife or spade, the rhizomes are then cut into sections, ensuring that each piece has at least one growth point or bud. These sections are immediately replanted in the desired location, either in a pot or directly in the water garden, with the buds facing upwards. It's crucial to maintain consistent moisture for the newly planted rhizomes until they establish and begin to show new growth.
