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:

It is prized for the beauty of its large floating flowers and its heart-shaped green leaves. Their aesthetic can transform a pond or water garden into a relaxing and peaceful space. It is a beautiful ornamental plant for ponds.

Like most aquatic plants, the pink water lily contributes to water oxygenation and plays an important role in its ecosystem. It is beneficial to other aquatic organisms while providing shade and protection for small fish.

- 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.