Water Lily Nymphaea 'William Falconer' (H)
ABOUT
The Nymphaea 'William Falconer' commonly known as water lily is a captivating aquatic plant with a stunning display of blossoms. The flowers are the highlight of this plant, emerging in a rich, wine-red color that can add a dramatic flair to any pond or water garden. Each bloom is comprised of multiple layers of petals, creating a full, rounded appearance that is both lush and inviting. The petals often exhibit a slightly ruffled edge, contributing to the plant's overall elegance and charm. These blooms float gracefully on the water's surface, supported by glossy, round to oval-shaped lily pads that are a deep green in color. The leaves themselves may have reddish undersides or veining, complementing the flower's coloration. As a floating plant, the water lily spreads across the water surface, creating a serene and picturesque scene that is often associated with tranquility and beauty.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
William Falconer Water Lily, William Falconer Hardy Water Lily.
Common names
Nymphaea 'William Falconer'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is the Water Lily. In general, water lilies (Nymphaea species) are not considered toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to avoid ingesting any plant material that is not known to be edible, as individual sensitivities can vary, and some parts of plants could cause irritation or an allergic reaction. If water lily parts are ingested in large quantities, they might cause mild stomach upset, but typically they do not pose serious toxicity risks to humans.
To pets
The plant in question is the Water Lily. Water lilies are generally not considered highly toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. While ingestion of any non-food plant material can potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, the water lily is not known to contain any highly toxic compounds that would lead to severe poisoning. Nonetheless, pet owners should discourage their animals from eating plant material and should monitor for any signs of distress if ingestion occurs.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
0.5 feet [15 cm]
Spread
3 feet [91 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Nymphaea 'William Falconer' (Water Lily) adds aesthetic appeal to ponds and water gardens with its showy, fragrant blooms and attractive foliage.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides a habitat for aquatic creatures such as frogs, and a landing platform for insects including dragonflies and bees.
- Shade and Cooling: The large leaves offer shade to aquatic life and help to regulate water temperature, creating a cooler environment in the summer.
- Water Quality: The roots of water lilies can help stabilize the sediment in ponds, reducing erosion and improving water clarity.
- Oxygenation: While not as prolific as submerged plants, water lilies do contribute to the oxygenation of water through photosynthesis.
- Reduces Algal Growth: By shading the water, water lilies can limit the sunlight available for algae, thus helping to control algal blooms.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The petals of the water lily can be used for ornamentation in floating candle arrangements, adding a touch of natural beauty to home décor.
- Water lily leaves can serve as a natural plate or wrapper for serving food in sustainable, eco-friendly events or settings.
- The fibers from water lily stems can be utilized in making handmade paper, offering a unique texture and appearance.
- Sturdy, large water lily leaves can be used as a natural canvas for painting, providing an organic medium for artists.
- Water lily seeds, when dried, can be used in jewelry-making as beads due to their size and shape.
- The vivid colors of water lily blooms can be utilized in natural dyeing processes for fabrics and textiles.
- Dried water lily flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, contributing to the visual appeal and fragrance.
- Water lilies can be used in water gardens to provide shade for aquatic life, helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
- The plant's large leaves can act as a subtle protective cover for small fish and other aquatic creatures from predators.
- Water lily plants can be used in educational settings, like schools or botanical gardens, to teach about aquatic plant life and pond ecosystems.
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- Peace: Water lilies, including Nymphaea 'William Falconer', are often associated with tranquility and calmness, reflecting their serene presence on the surface of still waters.
- Purity: The water lily's tendency to rise above the mud and bloom beautifully on the water’s surface symbolizes purity of heart and mind.
- Enlightenment: In some Eastern cultures, the water lily is a symbol of enlightenment, as it is connected to the spiritual journey of emerging from murky waters into a state of grace.
- Rebirth: The life cycle of water lilies, which includes closing at night and reopening with the morning sun, signifies rebirth and the idea of resurrection.
- Beauty: Water lilies have long been admired for their delicate beauty; thus, they symbolize grace, elegance, and the beauty of nature.
WaterTo water a Water Lily, which is the common name for Nymphaea 'William Falconer', you should ensure that the plant is submerged in at least 6 to 18 inches of water, depending on the size of the pond or container. The aquatic environment means that traditional watering is not required, but the pond or container should be topped off as needed to maintain the appropriate water level, which could vary due to evaporation. This can equate to adding several gallons per week during hot weather to compensate for water loss. It is important to monitor the water level regularly and maintain a stable water depth for optimal growth.
LightWater Lilies, including Nymphaea 'William Falconer', thrive best in full sunlight. They require a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day, but will perform best with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. The ideal spot for planting Water Lilies is in a pond or container that receives ample sunlight away from any shaded areas that could impede their exposure to full sun.
TemperatureWater Lilies like Nymphaea 'William Falconer' perform well in a range of temperatures, but the ideal temperature for growth is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but growth may be inhibited outside the optimal range. It is essential to avoid freezing conditions as these can damage or kill the plant.
PruningWater Lilies, like the Nymphaea 'William Falconer', should be pruned to remove dead or fading leaves and flowers to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's appearance. Regularly inspect the plant and snip off any spent foliage at the base. The best time for pruning is throughout the growing season, typically from late spring through to early autumn, as this is when the plant is most actively producing new leaves and blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Water Lily (Nymphaea 'William Falconer') consists of a heavy loam soil. It should be rich in clay and silt for firm anchorage and nutrient availability. The ideal pH level for this aquatic plant ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 to ensure optimal growth.
RepottingWater Lilies (Nymphaea 'William Falconer') should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to rejuvenate the soil and provide space for growth. They should also be divided during repotting to manage their size and promote more vibrant blooms.
Humidity & MistingWater Lilies (Nymphaea 'William Falconer') thrive in a high humidity environment, as they are aquatic plants. The water surface around the plant maintains the high humidity level required for the plant's success.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not typically grown indoors; needs pond or large water container.
Outdoor
Plant in a pond with still water and full sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
4-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Nymphaea 'William Falconer', commonly known as Water Lily, begins with seed germination where the seeds need to be submerged in water to develop. Once germinated, the young seedlings grow roots that anchor them to the soil at the bottom of the pond or lake while their leaves and stems grow towards the water surface. These floating leaves, known as lily pads, spread out on the water surface and carry out photosynthesis. The plant then matures and produces distinctive flowers that float on the water's surface or rise above it, depending on the variety. After pollination, which is often aided by insects, the flowers produce seeds that can disperse to grow new plants, thus continuing the cycle. Over time, older leaves and flowers wilt and die, decomposing in the water, which can provide nutrients for the growing plant and other aquatic life.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Nymphaea 'William Falconer', commonly known as a Water Lily, is by division. This is typically done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Gardeners carefully remove the water lily from the pond or container and divide the rhizomes with a sharp, clean knife, ensuring that each section has at least one growing point or eye. The divisions are then replanted in aquatic planting containers filled with heavy loam soil, which should be submerged to a depth of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters). It’s important to weigh down the soil with pebbles or gravel to prevent it from floating away and to place the divisions so the growing points are facing upwards.
