Fire Crest Water Lily Nymphaea 'Fire Crest' (H)
ABOUT
Nymphaea 'Fire Crest', commonly known as the water lily 'Fire Crest', is an aquatic plant distinguished by its vibrant blooms and lily pad-like foliage that float on the water's surface. The flowers are particularly striking, featuring a blend of warm tones that may include deep pinks, reds, or even fuchsia, with a gradient effect that can make the outer petals a lighter shade than the innermost ones. The petals are numerous and may have a slightly ruffled or cupped appearance, coming to a gentle point at their tips. At the center of the flower, bright yellow stamens create an eye-catching contrast with the fiery petals. The leaves of the water lily 'Fire Crest' are nearly as distinctive as the flowers. They are typically round, with a waxy surface and notched edges, where the stem attaches to the underside. The top of the leaves are a lush green, while the underside may display shades of red or purple. They rest on the water's surface, spreading out around the plant. The serene presence of the floating foliage provides a backdrop that makes the blossoms appear even more vivid by contrast. As the leaves and flowers rise from underwater rhizomes, they contribute to the plant's overall aesthetic, which is one of tranquil beauty that can transform any pond or water garden into a picturesque scene.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Fire Crest Waterlily, Fire Crest Lotus
Common names
Nymphaea 'Fire Crest'
ToxicityTo humans
The Nymphaea 'Fire Crest,' commonly known as the Water Lily, is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not result in poisoning or adverse health effects. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it's generally advised to avoid eating ornamental plants.
To pets
The Water Lily is not considered toxic to pets. This means that pets that ingest parts of the Water Lily are not likely to suffer from poisoning or serious health issues as a direct result of the ingestion. Nevertheless, it's always prudent to prevent pets from consuming plants, as they might cause digestive upset or other non-toxic related issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
4 feet (122 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Nymphaea 'Fire Crest', commonly known as the Water Lily, adds vibrant color and beauty to any water garden or pond with its striking red-pink blossoms.
- Wildlife Habitat: This aquatic plant provides a natural habitat and breeding grounds for various pondlife such as frogs, snails, and even beneficial insects.
- Ecosystem Balance: Water lilies help maintain the balance in aquatic ecosystems by providing shade and reducing algae growth through competitive exclusion.
- Water Quality Improvement: The roots and leaves can help improve water quality by absorbing nutrients from the water, which might otherwise lead to excess algae or plant growth.
- Thermal Regulation: Water lilies, including the 'Fire Crest', offer shade to the water beneath, which can help moderate water temperature and protect aquatic wildlife from extreme heat.
- Increased Biodiversity: By planting Water Lilies in a pond or water garden, you contribute to the increase of plant diversity in that particular habitat.
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 colors of the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' make it a popular subject for photographers, especially those interested in botanical, nature, or water landscapes.
- Artistic Inspiration - Artists may use the bright hues and unique shape of the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' as an inspiration for paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
- Water Feature Design - Utilized in ornamental ponds and water garden design, these water lilies can add a splash of color and help create a certain aesthetic.
- Culinary Garnish - Although not a common practice, the petals of Water Lily 'Fire Crest' can be used as a colorful garnish for exotic dishes, fancy cocktails, or desserts.
- Stress Relief - Observing the tranquil beauty of the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' can offer a form of stress relief and contribute to mental well-being by promoting a peaceful environment.
- Educational Tool - Water Lily 'Fire Crest' can serve as a practical example for botanical studies or educational programs relating to aquatic plant life and pond ecosystems.
- Craft Making - The leaves and blossoms of the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' can be incorporated into handmade paper, creating a unique texture and pattern.
- Feng Shui - Water Lilies like 'Fire Crest' are often used in the practice of Feng Shui to introduce water elements, which are believed to bring wealth and prosperity.
- Wildlife Support - While not unusual, it's worth noting that Water Lilies provide habitat and breeding grounds for a variety of pond life, including fish and frogs.
- Theme Gardens - The 'Fire Crest' Water Lily can be a focal point in a theme garden, such as a fire-themed garden due to its fiery coloration.
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- Rebirth: The Nymphaea 'Fire Crest', commonly known as the Water Lily, emerges from murky waters to bloom, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and the emergence of the soul into divine truth.
- Purity: Despite growing in muddy waters, the Water Lily remains clean, representing purity of heart and mind.
- Enlightenment: Often associated with spiritual awakening, the Water Lily's growth from dark waters to the light parallels the journey of the human soul toward higher understanding.
- Fertility: The Water Lily's lush and full-bodied blooms are often connected to fertility and creation.
- Beauty: The striking appearance of the 'Fire Crest' variety, with its vibrant colors and graceful form, embodies beauty and the admiration of aesthetics.
- Tranquility: The Water Lily's serene presence on still waters evokes a sense of peace and calmness in many cultures.
WaterWater lilies, like the Water Lily 'Fire Crest', require an aquatic environment and should be planted in pots submerged in at least 12 inches of water to ensure they have continuous access to moisture. They do not require watering in the traditional sense, as their roots are always in contact with water. Instead, they should be situated in a pond or water feature that maintains a consistent water level. It's essential to top up the water feature as needed to counteract evaporation, which might be weekly or more often during hot weather, ensuring the water level remains adequate to keep the lilies submerged.
LightWater Lilies, including the 'Fire Crest' variety, thrive best in full sunlight for at least six hours a day. They should be placed in a spot where they can receive uninterrupted and direct sunlight, as this is crucial for their growth and bloom development. Partial shade may be tolerated, but it will likely result in fewer flowers.
TemperatureThe Water Lily 'Fire Crest' is adaptable to a range of temperature conditions but grows best in water temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 85°F. To ensure optimal growth and flowering, it's important to protect them from freezing conditions, as they are not frost-tolerant and can be damaged by ice.
PruningPruning the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' helps to maintain its health and appearance by removing spent flowers and yellowing leaves. This encourages the growth of new blossoms and foliage. Prune as needed throughout the blooming season, which usually spans from late spring to early autumn. The best time for pruning is during the active growth period when the plant is producing new leaves and flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' should be heavy loam soil; clay-based substrates work well for anchoring the plant. It should be free of debris and not contain peat or bark, as they can float and disrupt the plant. The ideal soil pH should be between 6 and 7.5, allowing the water lily to absorb necessary nutrients effectively.
RepottingWater Lilies like 'Fire Crest' should be repotted every 1 to 2 years. As they are vigorous growers, the best time to repot them is in the spring before they start their rapid growth phase or when you notice that the plant has outgrown its container.
Humidity & MistingWater Lilies such as 'Fire Crest' require high humidity levels; they thrive best when planted in ponds or water gardens, where the natural humidity is provided by the surrounding water.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in containers with water and in full sunlight.
Outdoor
Plant in ponds with full sunlight exposure.
Hardiness zone
4-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Firecrest Water Lily (Nymphaea 'Fire Crest') begins with a dormant rhizome planted in soil at the bottom of a pond or water container. In spring, the rhizome sprouts roots and shoots, the latter growing towards the water surface. Leaves emerge on the water surface as floating pads, providing photosynthesis and helping to shade the water, which reduces algal growth. Throughout the summer, the plant produces vibrant, fragrant blooms that rise above the water surface, typically opening in the morning and closing in the afternoon. After pollination, flowers are replaced by seed pods that eventually sink and release seeds, starting a new generation if conditions permit. In colder climates, the plant becomes dormant in winter, retreating to the rhizome until warmer temperatures indicate the start of a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Water Lily 'Fire Crest' is by division. This process is best performed in late spring to early summer when the plant's growth is most active. The mature plant should be lifted from the pond and the tuberous rhizome should be carefully divided, ensuring each section has at least one growing point or "eye." The cuttings should be planted in aquatic planting baskets filled with a heavy loam soil, and the top should be gently pressed down to remove air pockets. The re-potted divisions can be placed at a depth of about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) below the water surface to encourage strong growth. It's essential to give the newly planted divisions time to establish before the colder weather sets in.
