Pink Water Lily Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' (H)
ABOUT
The Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' (H), commonly known as the Rose Arey water lily, is recognized for its captivating appearance. The most striking feature of this aquatic plant is its flowers. Each flower showcases a layered array of petals that gradually transition in color from a rich, deep pink at the base to a softer pale pink towards the tips. The petals are shaped with a delicate roundness, with subtle overlaps that add to its intricate aesthetic. In the very center, the petals encircle a bright yellow heart, where the stamens are found, creating a stunning contrast against the pink. This vibrant heart consists of numerous small, slender stamens that radiate outward, adding to the flower's ornamental charm. Below the surface of the water, the leaves of the Rose Arey water lily float gracefully. They are almost circular with a slit on one side and have a rich green color that may sometimes exhibit hints of purple or maroon, subtly veined and with edges that can gently undulate. The foliage serves as a lush backdrop for the blossoms, which typically sit just above the waterline when in bloom. The overall appearance of Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' exudes an air of tranquility and delicate beauty, making it a coveted addition to water gardens and ponds.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Rose Arey Water Lily, Rose Arey Hardy Water Lily
Common names
Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' (H).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as water lily, specifically the Nymphaea 'Rose Arey', is not considered toxic to humans. Generally, water lilies are not poisonous and do not cause serious symptoms if ingested. However, as a safety precaution, it is not recommended to eat any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for pesticides or other chemicals that could be present. Ingestion of plant parts in large quantities may cause mild stomach upset in some individuals.
To pets
The common water lily, which includes the Nymphaea 'Rose Arey', is not known to be toxic to pets. These plants are typically safe for animals, and there is no widespread evidence suggesting that water lilies cause poisoning in pets. However, as with humans, it's best to prevent pets from consuming ornamental plants to avoid the risk of stomach upset or reaction to any potential chemicals applied to the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
3 feet (91 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' adds a visually appealing element to ponds and water gardens with its striking rose-pink blooms.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The plant provides a habitat and breeding ground for aquatic life including frogs, fish, and beneficial insects.
- Reduces Algae Growth: By shading the water, it helps reduce the growth of algae, keeping the water clear and clean.
- Increases Biodiversity: Introducing this water lily helps to increase the biodiversity of the garden ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, water lilies like Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' require relatively little maintenance.
- Oxygenates Water: The plant helps oxygenate the water, which is vital for healthy fish and other aquatic organisms.
- Surface Coverage: Provides shade and shelter for fish, protecting them from predators and extreme sunlight.
- Sound Absorption: The broad leaves can help to dampen noise, creating a more tranquil garden environment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Water Gardening Feature: The Nymphaea 'Rose Arey', commonly known as Water Lily, can be used as a focal point in water gardens or small ponds due to its attractive blooms.
- Fish Habitat: The underwater parts of the Water Lily can provide a hiding place and breeding ground for fish in ponds.
- Photography Subject: Water Lilies are often used by photographers as a subject for nature photography because of their beauty and the way they add tranquility to water landscapes.
- Aquatic Crafts: The leaves and flowers of the Water Lily can be used to make pressed flower crafts or included in decorative displays.
- Educational Tool: Water Lilies can be used in educational settings to teach about aquatic plant life cycles and pond ecosystems.
- Feng Shui: In the practice of Feng Shui, Water Lilies are sometimes used to contribute to the balance of elements in garden design, symbolizing serenity and purity.
- Culinary Presentation: Although not for consumption, the Water Lily can be used as an exotic garnish for plating high-end cuisine or decorating serving trays at events.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use the form and color of Water Lilies as inspiration for paintings, sculptures, and other art forms.
- Cultural Symbolism: In various cultures, Water Lilies can be symbolic and are used in cultural ceremonies representing purity, enlightenment, or rebirth.
- Poetry and Literature: The beauty of the Water Lily often makes it a subject in poetry and literature, where it is used metaphorically to convey emotions or set a scene.
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, which Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' is a type of, often symbolizes purity due to its ability to emerge from murky waters clean and unspoiled.
- Beauty: With its delicate and elegant blossoms, the water lily represents beauty, often suggesting a gentle and subtle type that does not fade with time.
- Enlightenment: In some spiritual beliefs like Buddhism, the water lily is associated with enlightenment as it is a flower that blooms beautifully above the muddy waters, symbolizing the emergence from suffering towards the light of wisdom.
- Rebirth: Water lilies are perennial plants that come back year after year, which symbolizes resurrection and the idea of the soul's continual renewal.
- Peace: The serene and calming presence of water lilies floating on still water gives them a symbolism of peace and tranquility.
WaterThe Hardy Water Lily 'Rose Arey' thrives when the plant's rhizomes are submerged in 12 to 18 inches of water, meaning that the pond or aquatic container should have a stable water level to sustain healthy growth. It is important to ensure that the plant receives a steady water supply to maintain the proper depth, so checking water levels weekly and topping up as necessary is crucial. During the hottest parts of the summer, more frequent additions might be needed, potentially several gallons per week, depending on evaporation and plant uptake. Rainfall will naturally contribute to the water levels, but during dry spells, you should add additional water to maintain the required depth. It is less about watering in the conventional sense and more about maintaining the appropriate water environment for the plant to flourish.
LightThe Hardy Water Lily 'Rose Arey' prefers full sunlight to thrive, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this aquatic plant is an open area of a pond or water garden that is not shaded by trees or structures during the peak daylight hours. However, it can tolerate some light shade, particularly in the hotter afternoons, which can help prevent the water from overheating.
TemperatureHardy Water Lilies, including 'Rose Arey', can survive a wide range of temperatures but grow best when water temperatures are between 70°F and 85°F. They can survive temperatures just above freezing, and typically go dormant when the water temperature falls below 45°F in the winter. To ensure healthy growth and blooming, maintain your pond or water garden within these ideal temperature ranges during the growing season.
PruningPrune the Hardy Water Lily 'Rose Arey' to maintain its shape and health by removing yellowing leaves and spent flowers. Pruning helps to encourage new growth and more blooms. Perform pruning throughout the growing season as needed, usually every couple of weeks, to keep the plant looking tidy. The best time to prune is during the cooler parts of the day to minimize stress on the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Nymphaea 'Rose Arey', commonly known as the Water Lily, is heavy clay loam with zero to very little organic matter. It should be planted in containers without drainage holes, submerged in ponds or water features. The ideal soil pH for Water Lilies is around 6.5 to 7.5, ensuring the water is not too acidic or alkaline.
RepottingWater Lilies like Nymphaea 'Rose Arey' should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and allow space for growth. It's best done in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts.
Humidity & MistingNymphaea 'Rose Arey', or Water Lily, thrives in high humidity conditions which are naturally provided by their aquatic environment. Consistent water levels in ponds or water gardens are essential for maintaining the proper humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Cannot grow Water Lilies indoors due to size and water need.
Outdoor
Grow in still, shallow water and full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-11 USDA.
Life cycleThe life of the Hardy Water Lily 'Rose Arey' starts with seed germination or vegetative propagation from rhizomes, with the latter being the more common method for garden cultivation. As the rhizomes establish, roots anchor into the underwater soil and leaves begin to grow towards the water's surface. These floating leaves, or lily pads, provide photosynthetic energy to fuel growth and are crucial for gas exchange. The plant reaches maturity and enters its flowering stage during the warmer months, displaying fragrant, rose-pink blossoms that float on the water's surface and attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers sink below the water to develop seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Eventually, the plant enters a dormant phase during colder weather, with the rhizomes surviving underwater until the conditions are favorable for the next growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the Nymphaea 'Rose Arey', commonly known as hardy water lily, is by division. This process typically takes place in the spring as the water temperatures begin to warm, prompting the plant to start its active growth. To propagate by division, a mature plant must be carefully lifted from the water. Then, using a sharp knife, the rhizome is cut into sections ensuring that each section has at least one growth point or "eye". It's crucial to make clean cuts to avoid disease. Once divided, the sections can be planted in containers filled with aquatic soil and lowered back into the pond at the recommended depth. After the division, the plants will generally resume growth quickly and can even bloom in the same season.
