Water lily Nymphaea 'Newton' (H)
ABOUT
The Nymphaea 'Newton' is a water lily known for its captivating beauty and is a popular choice for water gardens and ponds. Its appearance is distinguished by its striking blossoms, which are often found floating on the water's surface. These flowers exhibit a vibrant color palette, typically showcasing deep pink petals that can sometimes appear almost red. The blossoms consist of numerous petals that overlap in a classic water lily form, creating a full and inviting look. At the heart of the flower, there is typically a golden or yellow center, which adds a contrasting pop of color to the rich petals. The center is surrounded by prominent stamens that may be visible. This water lily's leaves, known as lily pads, provide a lush backdrop for the flowers. They are normally a deep green with a waxy, rounded shape, sometimes with a subtle purple or reddish tinge towards the edges. The leaves float on the water's surface, connected to the plant by sturdy stems that anchor them to the soil below the water. In addition to the aesthetic qualities of its flowers and foliage, the water lily is also valued for its role in the aquatic ecosystem. It provides shade and habitat for fish and other wildlife, helping to maintain a balanced and healthy pond or water garden environment. Overall, Nymphaea 'Newton' is appreciated not only for its ornamental appeal but also for the life it supports within its aquatic setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Nymphaeaceae
Synonyms
Newton Water Lily, Newton's Water Lily
Common names
Nymphaea 'Newton' (H).
ToxicityTo humans
Water lilies are not generally considered toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable for individuals with plant allergies or sensitivities to be cautious around any plant species. There is no specific information on the toxicity of the 'Newton' cultivar to humans, but generally, the ingestion of non-food plants should be avoided due to the potential for gastrointestinal discomfort or irritation caused by unknown or unexpected compounds.
To pets
Water lilies, including the 'Newton' cultivar, are generally not toxic to pets. However, if a pet ingests a significant amount of plant material, it may experience mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea due to the ingestion of non-digestible matter. Always monitor pets around plants and consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested an unfamiliar plant or is showing signs of illness.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
0-1 feet (0-0.3 meters)
Spread
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds beauty to ponds and water gardens with its striking, large blossoms.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Provides shelter and breeding grounds for fish and aquatic insects.
- Shade Provider: Large lily pads offer shade for aquatic life, helping to regulate water temperature.
- Surface Coverage: Helps reduce algae growth by limiting sunlight penetration into the water.
- Tranquility: The presence of water lilies is often associated with calm and serenity in a garden setting.
- Oxygenation: During the day, the leaves photosynthesize and release oxygen into the water, benefiting aquatic life.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Newton Waterlily can be used as a natural water filter in ponds by absorbing excess nutrients that can lead to algal blooms.
- Large Newton Waterlily leaves provide shade and shelter for aquatic creatures, creating a microhabitat within garden ponds.
- The floating leaves of the Newton Waterlily can be used as a canvas for art projects, especially for eco-printing techniques.
- Dried and pressed, Newton Waterlily flowers can be incorporated into decorative homemade paper or botanical bookmarks.
- Newton Waterlily is used in small-scale water features to create naturalistic aesthetics and tranquility in personal spaces.
- The leaves of the Newton Waterlily may be used as natural serving dishes for garden parties, giving a unique and biodegradable presentation.
- Photographers and painters often use the Newton Waterlily as a subject to capture the essence of calm and beauty in water gardens.
- In some cultures, the Newton Waterlily is a symbol used in ceremonies or rituals associated with purity, enlightenment, or rebirth.
- Teachers and educators may use the Newton Waterlily to demonstrate the concept of buoyancy and surface tension to students.
- Newton Waterlily can be incorporated as part of a permaculture design, emphasizing sustainable and self-maintaining ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe water lily is often associated with serenity and purity in Feng Shui. It can be used to enhance the energy in the wealth area (southeast) or the career area (north) when placed in a water feature, as water elements in Feng Shui are connected to prosperity and the flow of life.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe water lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Like other water lilies, the Nymphaea 'Newton' is often associated with purity due to its ability to emerge from murky waters clean and untainted.
- Enlightenment: The water lily's open bloom is likened to an awakened mind, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.
- Rebirth: The daily cycle of closing at night and reopening with the sun is symbolic of rebirth and resurrection themes
- Beauty: The Nymphaea 'Newton' is prized for its attractive blooms, representing beauty and grace in many cultures.
- Peace: The serene appearance of the water lily on still waters conveys a message of tranquility and peace.
WaterWater lilies, including the Nymphaea 'Newton' variety, thrive in aquatic environments, so they should be planted in ponds or water gardens where they are submerged in water. The leaves should float on the surface while the roots are anchored in soil beneath the water. Ensure that the water depth is between 12 and 18 inches for optimal growth. The plant does not require watering in the traditional sense as it is in constant contact with water. However, you should top off the pond or container as needed to maintain the correct water depth due to evaporation; this may range from a few ounces to several gallons each week depending on the size of the pond and local weather conditions.
LightWater lilies like Nymphaea 'Newton' require full sunlight to thrive, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this aquatic plant is in an open area of a pond or water garden that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it under trees or in the shadow of structures that would limit light exposure.
TemperatureThe Hardy water lily Nymphaea 'Newton' can withstand a range of temperatures and is known for its tolerance to colder climates. It is able to survive winters in ponds that freeze over, as long as the root system does not freeze solid. Typically, hardy water lilies can endure minimum temperatures down to about 0 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer warmer summer temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
PruningPruning Nymphaea 'Newton' helps to maintain the aesthetics of the water garden and encourages healthy growth. Remove yellow or dead leaves and spent flowers by cutting them at the base of the stem to avoid rotting. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as necessary when dead or unsightly plant material is observed. The best time to do major pruning and cleaning is in the fall, when the plant is preparing for dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWater lily 'Newton' thrives in heavy loam with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A good mix includes clay and sand, providing anchorage and nutrient retention.
RepottingWater lilies, like 'Newton', should be repotted every 1-2 years, usually during spring before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingWater lily 'Newton' requires high humidity, being an aquatic plant, it should be kept in water, emulating its natural pond habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growth, needs ponds.
Outdoor
Plant in still, shallow water in sun.
Hardiness zone
4-10 USDA
Life cycleNymphaea 'Newton', commonly known as Newton Waterlily, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in the mud of calm freshwater bodies. The seedling develops into a small tuber, which overwinters in the sediment. Come spring, the tuber sends up shoots that reach the water surface and unfold leaves, or lily pads. Throughout the warmer months, the Newton Waterlily produces large, fragrant blossoms that float on the water’s surface and are often shaded deep pink to red. These flowers are pollinated primarily by insects, leading to the production of seeds that fall to the bottom and can initiate the next generation. As temperatures drop, the aerial parts of the plant die back, but the tuber remains dormant in the mud, ready to restart the cycle with the return of favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Nymphaea 'Newton', commonly known as Newton Water Lily, is best propagated by dividing the rhizomes. This process typically takes place in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. To propagate by division, carefully lift the water lily from the pond, ensuring minimal disturbance to the plant. Identify the rhizomes that show evidence of bud growth. Using a sharp knife, cut sections of the rhizome ensuring each piece has at least one growing point or bud. Replant the divisions in pots filled with heavy loam soil, submerging them in shallow water until new growth is apparent. Each division should be placed at a 45-degree angle with the cut edge facing upwards to allow the bud to grow towards the water's surface.
