Fragrant Water Lily
Nymphaea odorata
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Pl. B939 — Nymphaea odorata
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IOverview
Overview
Fragrant Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata) is a perennial herb that thrives in full sun and water environments, with a native range extending from Alabama to Virginia and into parts of Canada. Known for its light, airy nature, this plant prefers soils that are light, medium, or heavy, particularly clay. It is hardy in zones 4-8, making it adaptable to various climates within its native range. Fragrant Water Lily is not only ornamental but also edible, with all parts—flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds—being consumable. Its distinctive feature lies in the delightful fragrance of its blooms, which add a sensory delight to any water garden or pond setting.
Quick answers
What is Fragrant Water Lily?
Fragrant Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata) is a perennial herb that thrives in full sun and water environments, with a native range extending from Alabama to Virginia and into parts of Canada. Known for its light, airy nature, this plant prefers soils that are light, medium, or heavy, particularly clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Fragrant Water Lily thrives in full sun and requires water for its cultivation. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils but can adapt to various conditions. Hardy in zones 4-8, this perennial is suitable for temperate regions. Propagate through division of rhizomes or seeds. Regular watering is essential, as it grows naturally in wetlands and water bodies. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Light
Full sun
Water
Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
For first-time growers
How to grow Fragrant Water Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple setup to grow Fragrant Water Lily as a beginner.
- 1
What you'll need
A large container, water lily rhizomes or seeds, and aquatic planting medium.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the water temperature is above 60°F (15°C).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a large container with at least 2 feet of water depth. Fill it with aquatic planting medium.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place rhizomes on the surface of the soil, burying them slightly. For seeds, sow directly in the container.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the water level stable and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days to prevent shock.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure (6-8 hours daily) and maintain a consistent water depth. Monitor for pests.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and flowers regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overcrowding, using too much fertilizer, planting in direct sunlight, not providing enough water depth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootSeed
Edible uses: The fragrant water lily, Nymphaea odorata, is edible and can be enjoyed in various forms. Its flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds are all usable. The flowers can be eaten raw or used to make tea, while the young leaves and shoots are often cooked like spinach. Roots can also be boiled and eaten as a vegetable. Seeds can be roasted for a nutty snack.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Americas4 regions
native (4)BahamasCubaEl SalvadorHonduras
Broader regions
native:Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, Massachusetts
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · b9394ea2-ac13-473f-bcd8-ee7564d99335
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