PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering; tolerates dappled shade in hot tropical climates
Watering
Requires constant access to shallow freshwater (5–15 cm depth); avoid stagnant, polluted water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C to prevent bulb damage and stunted growth
Characteristics
- Leaf: Long, strap-shaped bright green foliage, upright or gently arching above water
- Flower: Fragrant white trumpet-shaped blooms in dense umbels of 6–12 flowers
- Bulb: Large fleshy bulb, partially submerged in shallow water with fibrous root system
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent water level; top up daily during hot, dry periods to prevent bulb exposure
Fertilization
Apply diluted aquatic plant fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent algal blooms that can smother roots
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in dechlorinated water for 3 days; dilute 1 part tea to 20 parts water for root drenching; avoid contact with foliage to prevent leaf burnPruning
- Remove yellowing or decaying foliage regularly to maintain water quality and plant appearance
- Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage extended blooming and prevent seed formation
- Thin overcrowded foliage in early spring to improve airflow and light penetration to submerged roots
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and drooling
Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental aquatic plant for water gardens and ponds; fragrant cut flowers for floral arrangements
