Nymphaea alba

27 Jun

Nymphaea alba flower (12/06/2012, Cambridge)

Position: Full sun

Soil: Wet (planting depth 30cm -150cm)

Flowering period:Summer

Eventual Height: 10cm above water level

Eventual Spread: 2.5m

Hardiness: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b,11a

Family: Nymphaeaceae

Nymphaea alba is a deciduous perennial with an aquatic, floating habit. Its dark green leaves are glossy, round with a ‘V’ slot removed and entire margins and can be up to 30cm across. Its white flowers are semi-double, cup/ star shaped with yellow stamens and up to 15cm across. Its roots are rhizomes which anchor this plant to the bond bed. It prefers still to slow moving water in a large pond or lake.

Nymphaea alba leaf (08/06/2011, Cambridge)

Nymphaea alba, commonly known as the European White Water Lily, White Lotus or Neuphar, is native to most of Europe (including the UK), parts of north Africa and parts of the Middle East. The plant contains active alkaloids nymphaeine which is a sedative and an aphrodisiac. Traditionally the roots were crushed and mixed with wine and consumed by nuns and monks.

The etymological root of the binomial name Nymphaea is derived from Greek mythology where nymphs were minor deities associated with specific locations, including springs or small bodies of water. Alba is derived from the Latin meaning ‘white’ or ‘pale’ .

The Landscape architect may find Nymphaea alba useful as in water planting schemes within large bodies of still/ slow moving water. This plant will also help to reduce nitrogen levels in water bodies.

Nymphaea alba (08/06/2011, Cambridge)

Ecologically, Nymphaea alba will attract water boatmen, dragonflies, damson flies and will provide cover for water dwelling animals such as frogs, newts, Great Crested Newt and water snails.

Nymphaea alba prefers wet soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It should be planted at a depth of 30cm to 150cm.

Nymphaea alba requires little maintenance. Flowers may be deadheaded to prolong the flowering period and yellow leaves may be removed to facilitate new growth.