Water lily Nymphaea 'Conqueror' (H)
ABOUT
Nymphaea 'Conqueror' is commonly known as the Water Lily 'Conqueror'. This aquatic plant sports broad, flat leaves often referred to as lily pads. These rounded leaves have a waxy surface, sometimes displaying notches or a slight indentation at their margins. They float gracefully atop the water, providing a lush green backdrop for the plant's most striking feature: the flowers. The blooms of the Water Lily 'Conqueror' are particularly captivating and are the focal point of the plant. These flowers are large, layered, and cup-shaped, exuding an exotic charm that is hard to miss. The petals are soft and delicate, usually in profound shades that can range from deep red to rich pink. These enchanting blooms perch just above the water's surface, contrasting beautifully with their green lily pad counterparts. At the flower's center, vibrant stamens can be found, which may contain a hint of yellow or gold, adding to the visual attractiveness of the plant. These flowers often have a subtle fragrance and emerge on sturdy stems, slightly elevated above the water, catching the eye of onlookers with their floating display. Underneath the serene canopy of leaves, hidden from view, lies the root system of the Water Lily 'Conqueror'. Firmly anchored in the soil beneath the water body, the roots sustain the plant and absorb nutrients necessary for growth. In its entirety, the Water Lily 'Conqueror' is a picturesque addition to ponds and water gardens, with a surface display that gracefully combines ornate blooms with a verdant raft of foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Nymphaeaceae
Synonyms
Conqueror Water Lily, Conqueror Lotus
Common names
Nymphaea 'Conqueror' (H).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, commonly known as the Water Lily, is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of poisoning from ingestion of this plant, suggesting that it is unlikely to cause harm if accidentally consumed in small quantities.
To pets
The Water Lily is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, there is no well-documented evidence suggesting that the Water Lily is harmful to pets if they ingest parts of the plant. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large amounts by pets might cause gastrointestinal upset or other non-specific symptoms, so it's always best to keep an eye on your pet and prevent them from eating ornamental plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
0-1 feet (0-0.3 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Nymphaea 'Conqueror', commonly known as Water Lily, has vibrant, often colorful flowers that provide aesthetic appeal and beautify water gardens.
- Wildlife Attraction: Water Lilies create a habitat for aquatic creatures, attracting frogs, fish, and beneficial insects like dragonflies to the garden ecosystem.
- Shade Provider: The large leaves of the Water Lily provide shade for the water below, which helps to keep the water temperature cooler and reduces the growth of algae.
- Surface Coverage: The floating leaves cover the water surface, which can limit the light reaching the water, helping to control the growth of unwanted aquatic weeds.
- Increases Biodiversity: By adding a Water Lily to a pond, it contributes to ecological diversity, offering more variety in flora and fauna.
- Tranquility and Relaxation: Water Lilies are often associated with calm and serene water features, which can contribute to a peaceful and relaxing environment.
- Water Quality Improvement: The roots of Water Lilies absorb nutrients from the water, which can help to improve water quality and clarity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Water Lily stems can be used for weaving baskets and other items, taking advantage of their long, flexible properties.
- The large leaves of the Water Lily provide a natural canvas for artistic expression, sometimes used in eco-friendly art projects or nature crafts.
- Water Lilies can be used as a natural water feature enhancer for ponds or water gardens, improving the aesthetic without additional man-made materials.
- Dried Water Lily flowers can serve as ingredients for potpourri, adding a subtle fragrance to a room.
- Water Lily seed pods have been utilized in jewelry making, as their unique shape and texture create interesting focal points in necklaces and earrings.
- The fibers from the Water Lily can be twisted into cordage or string, which is useful for crafting and other practical applications.
- Water Lily petals can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics and papers, providing a range of colors depending on the part of the plant used.
- Pressed Water Lily flowers are used in stationary, greeting cards, and bookmarks, harnessing their aesthetic appeal for decorative purposes.
- The dead leaves and stems of Water Lilies, after composting, enhance soil quality for terrestrial gardening.
- Floating Water Lily pads can be used as a temporary substrate for aquatic insect breeding or as a natural frog spawning site.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Water Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Water Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Triumph: The 'Conqueror' epithet suggests victory and this water lily could symbolize overcoming obstacles or challenges.
- Purity: Water lilies are often associated with purity, as they rise above muddy waters to bloom. It can represent purity of heart or thought.
- Enlightenment: In Eastern cultures, the water lily signifies enlightenment, due to its ability to emerge from the murky water and bloom beautifully, analogous to an individual's spiritual emergence.
- Peace: The serene appearance of water lilies can represent calmness, peace, and tranquility, often used in spaces designed for meditation and relaxation.
- Beauty: With its stunning flowers, water lilies are commonly associated with beauty and can symbolize an admiration for the natural elegance.
WaterWater lilies like the Nymphaea 'Conqueror', commonly known as water lily 'Conqueror', should be planted in a pond or a water feature where they can float on the surface. They do not require traditional watering as terrestrial plants do. Instead, ensure they are placed in at least 12 - 18 inches of water to allow the roots to grow properly. They will naturally draw the water they need from their aquatic environment. The amount of water will fluctuate with evaporation and rainfall but generally, once established in a body of water, additional watering is unnecessary.
LightWater Lily 'Conqueror' thrives best in full sunlight, receiving at least six hours of direct sun per day. It should be planted in a spot within a pond or water garden that is free from shade and away from overhanging trees. The optimum light conditions aid in healthy leaf and bloom development and contribute to the overall vitality of the plant.
TemperatureWater Lily 'Conqueror' flourishes in warmer temperatures, with an ideal growing range between 70°F and 85°F. It can tolerate water temperatures as low as 60°F, but growth will be limited below this point. The plant can withstand brief periods of higher temperatures, but sustained heat above 90°F can stress the water lily.
PruningPruning Water Lily 'Conqueror' involves removing dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant's health and appearance. It is best to prune during the growing season to prevent decaying plant matter from accumulating in the water. Regularly pruning every few weeks will help encourage new growth and more blooms. The ideal time to perform major clean-up is in the fall as the plant goes dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Water Lily 'Conqueror' is a heavy loam soil, which is rich in clay and silt. It should not contain peat moss or bark, as they can float and disrupt the plant. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingThe Water Lily 'Conqueror' should generally be repotted every one to two years to replenish nutrients and give the rhizome space to grow. For optimal health, repotting is usually done during the growing season, preferably in the spring.
Humidity & MistingThe Water Lily 'Conqueror' does not have specific humidity requirements as it is an aquatic plant. It grows in water, therefore the air humidity is less relevant. Keeping the water well-aerated and clean is important for its growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in large containers with aquatic soil under full spectrum lights.
Outdoor
Plant in pond with full sun, submerged 12-18 inches.
Hardiness zone
4-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Nymphaea 'Conqueror', commonly known as Water Lily 'Conqueror', begins with seed germination, requiring warm temperatures and plenty of light. The seeds sprout roots that anchor into the substrate at the bottom of a water body, while the initial leaves, or cotyledons, float to the surface. As the plant matures, it develops larger and more robust floating leaves, or lily pads, which provide photosynthesis and aid in gas exchange. The characteristic flowers of the 'Conqueror' then bloom from late spring to early autumn, showcasing their vibrant colors and attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flower subsides and a fruit forms, eventually releasing seeds to start the cycle anew. Through the colder months, the plant enters a dormant phase, with the rhizome surviving the winter at the bottom of the water to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Nymphaea 'Conqueror', commonly known as Water Lily, is typically propagated through division of rhizomes during the spring. This method involves carefully lifting the plant from the pond, inspecting the rhizomes for rot or disease, and using a sharp knife to cut through the rhizome to separate sections that include at least one growing point or "eye." These sections are then replanted in pots filled with aquatic soil, submerged in shallow water until growth is established, and can be placed at the correct depth once the plant starts actively growing. It requires gentle handling to avoid damage to the plant, and each division should be substantial enough to ensure a viable new plant, typically several inches in length.
