Lucida Hardy Water Lily Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H)
ABOUT
The Nymphaea 'Lucida' commonly known as a water lily presents a captivating display on the water's surface. Showcasing vibrant blooms that float gracefully, the petals exhibit a color that ranges from deep pink to magenta, giving a vivid splash of color to any pond or calm body of water. These star-shaped flowers emerge from the water surface on a bed of lily pads that are rich green, rounded, and often have a waxy or slightly glossy texture. The lily pads serve as a foundation for the flowers and provide a habitat for aquatic life. The water lily's appearance is emblematic of tranquility and natural beauty, adding an aesthetic appeal wherever it grows.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Lucida Hardy Water Lily, Lucida Nymphaea.
Common names
Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H).
ToxicityTo humans
The Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H) is commonly known as a variety of water lily. Water lilies are not typically considered toxic to humans, and there is little to no report of toxicity arising from the casual handling or ingestion of Nymphaea species. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning are widely recognized or expected. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or unusual reactions can occur, so it is generally advisable to avoid ingestion of plants not meant for human consumption.
To pets
The Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H), commonly referred to as a variety of water lily, is not generally known to be toxic to pets. Water lilies are usually safe for pets and are often found in ornamental ponds without causing harm to animal life. Therefore, no significant toxicity or symptoms of poisoning specific to this plant are typically reported for pets. Nonetheless, it's always prudent to monitor pets around plants and prevent them from ingesting plant material, as individual reactions can vary and some pets may have sensitivities or allergies.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
3 feet (90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to water gardens with its vibrant blooms and lush foliage.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Provides shelter and breeding grounds for aquatic creatures such as frogs and beneficial insects.
- Water Quality Improvement: Roots help to stabilize the substrate and can absorb excess nutrients, reducing algae growth.
- Shade Provider: Large leaves create shaded areas in ponds, helping to regulate water temperature and protect aquatic life from harsh sunlight.
- Surface Cover: Reduces the amount of open water surface, which can deter mosquitoes from breeding.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aquatic Habitat Enrichment: The Nymphaea 'Lucida', commonly known as water lily, can provide a complex habitat for microorganisms and invertebrates, enhancing biodiversity within a pond ecosystem.
- Ornamental Display: Due to its striking flowers and leaves, water lily is used in ornamental water gardens and landscapes for aesthetic enhancement.
- Photography Subject: The water lily's vibrant colors and unique structure make it a popular subject for photographers specializing in plant and nature imagery.
- Craft Inspiration: The shapes and patterns of water lily leaves and blooms are often used as inspiration for artists and crafters in their designs for fabrics, wallpapers, and jewelry.
- Water Quality Indicator: The health of water lily plants can be an indicator of water quality in a pond or lake, signaling ecologists to possible environmental changes or pollutants.
- Education: Water lilies are utilized in educational settings to teach students about aquatic plant life cycles, pollination, and ecosystem relationships.
- Culinary Decoration: Although not common, the blossoms of water lilies can be used as delicate and attractive garnishes for special culinary presentations.
- Religious Symbolism: In various cultures, water lilies are symbols of enlightenment and purity and are used in religious artwork and ceremonies.
- Natural Pond Filtration: The roots of water lilies can help filter and clean the water by absorbing nutrients from the environment, thus contributing to the reduction of algae growth.
- Floating Planters: Water lilies can be grown in floating planters to create movable decorative elements on the surface of ponds and lakes.
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- Purity: The water lily, Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H), rises from muddy waters to bloom, which symbolizes the purity and enlightenment that can emerge from unclean or challenging conditions.
- Rebirth: Water lilies close at night and reopen with daylight, signifying renewal and the idea of resurrection or the start of new beginnings.
- Beauty: Recognized for their delicate and enchanting appearance, water lilies epitomize natural beauty and grace.
- Peace: The serene and calming presence of water lilies on still waters symbolizes tranquility and peace.
- Enlightenment: In many cultures, especially in Eastern traditions, the water lily is associated with spiritual enlightenment and the journey of the soul towards illumination.
WaterThe Hardy Water Lily (Nymphaea 'Lucida') should be planted in a pond or water garden where the rhizomes are underwater, and the leaves can float on the surface. They require a substantial amount of water and do not need watering in the traditional sense, as they are aquatic plants. Ensure that the pond is filled such that the water level is at least 12 to 18 inches above the planting container. Top off the water as needed to maintain this level, which could vary depending on evaporation and climate, but generally, a few gallons per week will suffice.
LightHardy Water Lilies like Nymphaea 'Lucida' thrive best in full sunlight situations. They should be placed in a spot where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate light is crucial for flower production and overall plant health.
TemperatureFor the Hardy Water Lily, Nymphaea 'Lucida', the ideal growing temperature is between 70°F and 85°F. It can tolerate a temperature range of 32°F to above 90°F, but growth and blooming may be affected if temperatures stray too far from the ideal range.
PruningPruning the Hardy Water Lily, Nymphaea 'Lucida', involves removing dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth and prevent decay in the water. Prune as needed throughout the growing season. The best time for pruning is during the spring when preparing the pond and the lilies for the upcoming growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Water Lily (most common name for Nymphaea 'Lucida') is heavy loam garden soil; avoid adding peat or bark. A pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal for healthy growth. It is important that the soil is rich and dense enough to anchor the plant properly in the pond or container.
RepottingWater Lilies should be repotted every one to two years, or when they outgrow their container. Overcrowded pots can lead to fewer or smaller blooms and can stress the Water Lily.
Humidity & MistingWater Lilies thrive in high humidity environments, as they are aquatic plants. The best condition for a Water Lily is being planted in still water with no excess running currents or splash, rather than focusing on surrounding air humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunlit pond setup; maintain warm temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in still, warm pond; full sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
4-10 USDA
Life cycleThe Nymphaea 'Lucida' (H) or Lucida Hardy Water Lily begins its life as a rhizome implanted in the sediment at the bottom of a body of water. Upon sprouting, it sends a shoot to the water's surface where leaves (or lily pads) emerge, unfold, and float to capture sunlight for photosynthesis. With adequate light, the plant then develops flowers that bloom on the water's surface, exhibiting vibrant colors and attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers retract below the water where seeds develop in a berry-like structure that eventually breaks down, releasing seeds to settle into the sediment. The seeds may lie dormant until conditions are favorable, at which point they germinate and the cycle restarts. Outside of this sexual reproduction, the plant can also propagate vegetatively through the division of its rhizome, thus spreading asexually within its watery habitat.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Nymphaea 'Lucida', commonly known as Water Lily, can be propagated through division during the growing season, which is typically in the late spring or early summer. The most popular method of propagation is by dividing the tuberous rhizomes. To propagate, carefully remove the water lily from the pond and rinse off any soil and debris. Look for the natural divisions in the rhizome, and using a sharp knife, cut the rhizome into sections ensuring each piece has at least one growth point or "eye." It's important that each cut surface is allowed to dry and callus over for a day before replanting in aquatic planting media. The new divisions can then be placed in pots and submerged in the pond at an appropriate depth, usually between 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters), where they will grow and eventually bloom.
