PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full direct sunlight to support consistent flowering; tolerates partial shade with reduced bloom production
Watering
Requires constant, still freshwater; maintain water depth of 30–90 cm to support leaf and flower growth
Temperature
Thrives in warm aquatic conditions; avoid temperatures below 15°C to prevent dormancy or rhizome damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Floating leaves are round, waxy, with a deep basal notch; submerged leaves are long, ribbon-like
- Flower: Fragrant white or pale pink blooms opening at night, closing by midday
- Root: Tuberous rhizomatous system anchored in aquatic substrate
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain stable water depth; replace 20% of water weekly to reduce algae buildup
Fertilization
Diluted aquatic fertilizer application every 2 weeks. Use fertilizer formulated for aquatic plants to avoid nutrient runoff and algae blooms
Composted eggshell powder：Sprinkle a thin layer of fully crushed, composted eggshells on the substrate surface; avoid overapplication to prevent excess nutrient buildup in waterPruning
- Remove yellowing or decaying floating and submerged leaves to maintain water clarity
- Trim excessive submerged foliage to prevent overcrowding and improve light penetration
- Divide mature rhizomes in spring to control spread and propagate new plants
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; rhizomes are edible when cooked in some cultural practices
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbol of rebirth, purity, and enlightenment in ancient Egyptian mythology
Usage: Ornamental aquatic plant for ponds and water gardens; cooked rhizomes are consumed as a food source in some African regions
