Water Lily Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville' (H)
ABOUT
The plant known as the water lily 'Charles de Meurville' has a notable appearance characterized by its vibrant and unique flowers. The blooms are a striking blend of pink and yellow, presenting a gradient of colors with deep pink at the tips of the petals gradually softening to a creamy yellow at the base. Each flower consists of numerous rounded petals that overlap and create a somewhat star-shaped form when viewed from above. The overall effect is of a lush, cup-like bloom floating delicately on the water's surface. Accompanying the flowers, there are rounded leaves that are green, often with a reddish underside, providing an attractive backdrop as they float alongside the flowers. The foliage adds to the plant's aesthetic, creating a serene and picturesque scene commonly observed in ponds and still water bodies where these plants are grown. The water lily 'Charles de Meurville', with its stunningly colored flowers and lily pads, is prized for its ornamental value and is a favorite among water garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Nymphaeaceae.
Synonyms
Charles de Meurville Waterlily, Charles de Meurville Hardy Waterlily, Charles de Meurville Nymphaea.
Common names
Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville'
ToxicityTo humans
The Water Lily, specifically the Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville', is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, consuming any part of the plant is not advisable as it could potentially cause a mild stomach upset due to the plant's natural defense mechanisms. It is important to note that while it may not be inherently poisonous, it is always recommended to discourage ingestion of any plant material that is not known to be edible, to avoid any potential allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
The Water Lily, specifically the Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville', is generally not considered toxic to pets. Ingesting parts of the water lily may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as dogs or cats, but it is not known to cause serious poisoning or life-threatening symptoms. As with humans, it's best to prevent pets from consuming any plant material that is not confirmed to be safe for them to avoid any potential adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
3 feet (91 cm)
Plant type
Aquatic
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Water garden aesthetics: Adds vibrant color and beauty to water gardens and ponds.
- Wildlife attraction: Provides habitat and breeding ground for frogs, fish, and other aquatic creatures.
- Ecosystem balance: Helps maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystem by providing oxygen through photosynthesis.
- Shade provider: Large leaves shade the water, reducing algae growth and helping to keep the water cool.
- Surface coverage: Reduces evaporation from water bodies, conserving water.
- Ornamental value: Highly prized by gardeners for its striking flowers and ornamental appeal.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography: The vibrant color and unique form of the Water Lily can serve as a stunning subject in both professional and amateur photography.
- Garden ponds: Water Lilies are popular additions to outdoor ponds for their aesthetic appeal and ability to provide shade for aquatic life.
- Art inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the intricate design of Water Lily blooms for paintings, illustrations, and fabric designs.
- Educational tool: Botanical gardens often use Water Lilies like Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville' to educate visitors about aquatic plant species and pond ecosystems.
- Cultural symbolism: Water Lilies can carry cultural significance in certain societies, often symbolizing purity, beauty, or rebirth, and are used in cultural ceremonies or decorations.
- Floristry: Although not as common as other flowers, some florists use Water Lilies in their arrangements for their symbolic meaning and exotic appearance.
- Fountain plants: Water Lilies can be used in ornamental fountains for their floating leaves and flowers, creating a serene and natural environment.
- Wedding decor: Live or artificial Water Lilies may be incorporated into wedding themes for table centerpieces or venue decorations.
- DIY crafts: Individuals can use dried Water Lily petals for crafting, such as in making homemade paper, candles, or potpourri.
- Water features in architectural design: Water Lilies can be included in architectural water features such as indoor atriums or reflecting pools for a touch of nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Water Lily is used in Feng Shui to promote serenity, purity, and peace. It can be placed in the water element areas of a space, such as a fountain in the north or southeast parts of a garden, to invite good fortune and assist with meditation and relaxation.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Water Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Tranquility: The Water Lily is often associated with tranquility due to its serene appearance on the surface of water, symbolizing peace and calmness.
- Purity: As a bloom that rises unsoiled from muddy waters, Water Lilies are frequently connected to purity of heart and mind.
- Enlightenment: In various cultures, the Water Lily's growth from the dark, muddy bottom to the surface symbolizes the journey of enlightenment and the achievement of understanding.
- Rebirth: The daily resurfacing of Water Lily blossoms is seen as a sign of resurrection, rejuvenation, and the renewal of life.
- Femininity and Beauty: With its delicate and intricate blooms, the Water Lily is often seen as a representation of femininity, beauty, and grace.
WaterThe Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville', commonly known as the Charles de Meurville water lily, should be planted in a pond or water garden where it can be submerged in water. The crown of the plant should be 12 to 18 inches below the surface of the water, ensuring it is continuously wet. It is not required to water this plant in the traditional sense, as its habitat within a body of water provides the necessary moisture. However, the pond should be topped off with water to replace any loss due to evaporation. Water quality should be maintained by adding fresh water as needed, potentially equating to a few gallons per week during hot weather to maintain the desired water level.
LightThe Charles de Meurville water lily thrives best in full sunlight. It should be placed in an open area of the pond that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid areas that are shaded by trees or structures, as insufficient sunlight can hinder the water lily's growth and blooming.
TemperatureThe Charles de Meurville water lily prefers warm temperatures and fares best when water temperatures are between 70°F and 85°F. It can survive in temperatures as low as 60°F, but will become dormant if the water temperature drops below this point. During winter months in cold climates, the plant may require added protection or removal from the pond to prevent freezing.
PruningPrune the Charles de Meurville water lily to maintain its appearance and encourage healthy growth. Remove yellow or dead leaves and spent blooms throughout the growing season. This not only improves the plant's health and stimulates more flowering but also prevents debris from accumulating in the water. The best time for pruning is during the growing season, as new growth emerges and older parts of the plant fade.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Water Lily (Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville') is a heavy loam soil with zero to minimal organic matter to prevent excessive growth of algae. Ideally, the soil pH for Water Lilies should be in the neutral range of 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingWater Lilies (Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville') are typically repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and provide room for growth. They should be repotted in the spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingWater Lilies (Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville') thrive in high humidity conditions, as they are aquatic plants. The ideal humidity level is naturally provided by their aquatic environment, making additional humidity unnecessary.
Suitable locationsIndoor
It's challenging to grow Water Lilies indoors due to their size and water needs.
Outdoor
Plant Water Lilies in still water, full sun, in zones 4-10.
Hardiness zone
4-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the water lily Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville' begins with seed germination under water, where the plant anchors itself in the soil of a fresh water body. As the seedling develops, it sends out its first floating leaves (or lily pads) to the water's surface to harness sunlight. Over time, the water lily matures and forms a rhizome, which is a horizontal stem that produces roots below and leaves and flowers above the water. During the growing season, the lily produces numerous fragrant flowers that bloom above water, traditionally in shades of pink and red, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced and then fall to the bottom of the water body to enter a dormant state over winter or until they find favorable conditions to germinate. The cycle continues as these new seeds eventually sprout, maintaining the colony or spreading to new locations.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Nymphaea 'Charles de Meurville', commonly known as water lily, is most commonly propagated through division, which is ideally performed in late winter or early spring just before the growing season begins. The popular method involves taking a mature water lily plant and carefully separating it into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least one growing point or "eye". These divisions can then be potted in containers filled with a heavy clay-based soil, submerging them in shallow water to encourage root development and new growth. As the water temperature warms up, the divisions will quickly establish themselves and begin to produce new foliage and blooms. This method allows for a swift increase in the number of plants and is preferred for its simplicity and effectiveness.
