Nymphaea carnea PINK WATER LILY (plant)

Pink water lily, also known as Nymphaea carnea in Latin, is a very hardy perennial aquatic plant. It is a floating-leaved species belonging to the Nymphaeaceae family. In various cultures, the water lily is often associated with purity and serenity, serving as a symbol of peace and spiritual awakening.

The rhizome of this pink-flowering water lily is thick and fleshy. It measures over 5 cm in thickness, allowing it to anchor firmly into the aquatic substrate.
This rhizome is often horizontal and extends beneath the water's surface.

Its large leaves can reach a diameter of 20 to 40 cm. They are floating and heart-shaped. The foliage is a bright green, with a smooth and slightly glossy texture.
Each leaf is attached to the rhizome by a long, flexible stem measuring from 25 cm to 1 meter in length, which allows the leaf to float on the water's surface.

The flowers of Nymphaea carnea can measure from 10 to 20 cm in diameter and are among the most delicate and spectacular in the water lily family.
They are pink, with numerous slightly curved petals that bloom on the water's surface. The flowers open in the morning and close at night, a cycle typical of water lilies.

Pink water lily seeds are small, round, and black, measuring 1 millimeter in diameter.

- Uses:

Aquatic Elegance at its Best

The Pink Water Lily is a botanical marvel, highly praised for the spectacular beauty of its large, floating flowers and heart-shaped foliage.
It is the gold standard for transforming a pond or pool into a true haven of peace, bringing a touch of refinement and serenity to your garden.

A Natural Asset for Your Pond

Beyond its aesthetics, the water lily plays a valuable ecological role.
Like most aquatic plants, it actively contributes to oxygenating the water and maintaining the pond's ecosystem balance.
Its broad foliage provides beneficial shade, offering natural protection for small fish and promoting biodiversity within your aquatic space.

Gardener's Tips

The Pink Water Lily is a robust and long-lasting plant. For optimal blooming, ensure it has a sunny location and the appropriate water depth.
It is the ideal ornamental investment to structure your water features with a touch of natural color and a soothing presence.

- Cultivation and Germination:

• Plant Pink water lily in a pot with a well-aerated substrate based on potting soil and sand.
• You may add pebbles on top of the substrate to hold the soil in place when immersing it in the water feature.
• Place the rhizome below the frost line, at a minimum depth of approximately 40 cm.
• Install it in a very bright location.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It will grow very quickly in a rich and fertile substrate. A mixture of equal parts potting soil and sand will suit it perfectly.
It is advisable to use a heavy substrate to prevent the roots from floating and the plant from becoming detached.

- Light / Exposure:

This aquatic species requires full sun exposure to bloom well. Proper exposure promotes not only flowering but also the general health of the plant.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

This water lily is considered a hardy perennial, capable of surviving in temperate and therefore cold climates.
However, it is sensitive to direct freezing. It is recommended to protect the roots during winter by plunging the pot into a deeper area of the pond.
It thrives in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Pink-flowered water lily reproduces primarily through the division of its rhizomes, but also by sowing seeds.

This article was written by Julien on 07/17/2026.