Water Lily Plants For Sale
The Water Lily perennial is one of the most distinct and recognizable plants. It is widely known as an aquatic plant that floats perfectly on top of the water, adorning garden ponds and lakes with color. It can be found throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada, but is particularly prevalent in the New England states.
The large flowers are solitary, just one per plant, and have a strong, pleasant fragrance that attracts helpful insects. The flowers visibly open their petals in the morning and close them at night, which has led to their significance as a symbol of rebirth and renewal.
Plant Details | Nymphaea odorata Specs & Growing Tips
Family: Nymphaeaceae
Light Requirement: Full sun, Part shade
Water Needs: Body of freshwater
Height: 6 inches
Spread: 6-12 inches
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time: June - September
Flower Color: Pink, Yellow, Purple, White
Wildlife Value: Frogs, Water quality
Unique Traits | Water Lily's Flowers, Leaves & Wildlife Role
The Lily Pad is an aquatic plant that grows from soil at the bottom of a freshwater body. The tissue of its stem and leaves is filled with air, giving it buoyancy to help it float. The stem is long and thin, while its leaves are large and circular except for a small triangular cutout where it meets the stem.
The leaves of this plant are coated in a waxy substance that repels water and also helps them float gently on top of the water. The petals are similarly waxy and overlap each other in a spiral. Their pointed ends and said spiral pattern give it its unique look, resembling a star. The flower is commonly found in pink or white, with a bright yellow center.
Landscape Uses & Maintenance Of Lily Pad
The presence of the Water Lily in an aquatic garden or small garden pond is much needed. It can improve water quality over time in its aquatic home and offers shelter for aquatic wildlife beneath the surface.
Water Lily also acts as a resting place for thirsty bees while frogs rest on its leaves, and its presence will help improve water quality over time. This special plant is a must-grow for any pond garden and will enhance your space with its aquatic blooms.
Customer Reviews
Great service and quick responses to concerns
These lilies are everything I hoped for—healthy, colorful, and so simple to care for. I’ll be ordering more soon.
Couldn’t be happier. The Water Lilies arrived in great shape, and within weeks they were thriving and blooming nonstop.
Every lily rooted quickly and produced the most stunning flowers. They look amazing in my koi pond. Highly recommend!
The lilies arrived in excellent condition. They’re already showing new leaves, and I can’t wait for more blossoms.
Are water lilies easy to grow?
Yes, water lilies are very easy to grow when planted in still or slow-moving water with plenty of sunlight. They thrive in ponds or containers with at least six hours of direct light daily. Once established, they bloom beautifully all summer with little maintenance.
Do water lilies multiply on their own?
Yes, water lilies multiply naturally by spreading rhizomes beneath the soil at the bottom of the pond. Over time, they form new plants that expand into larger, lush clusters. This steady growth creates a fuller display of floating leaves and blooms each season.
How deep should a pond be for water lilies?
A pond for water lilies should be about 12 to 24 inches deep for most varieties. Hardy types can grow in slightly deeper water, while tropical ones prefer the shallower end. This depth allows their roots to anchor securely while leaves and flowers float beautifully on the surface.
Exposure
Water lilies flourish in complete sun, needing at least 6 hours of natural sunlight daily to produce abundant blooms. They can tolerate partial shade but may flower less. Ensure they receive ample sunlight for optimal growth and vibrant blossoms.
Height at Maturity
Under 12"
Usage
Wetland Plant
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-11
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Specialty Plants for Specific Causes
Specialty plants serve meaningful purposes beyond beauty—whether it's attracting pollinators, repelling pests, preventing erosion, feeding wildlife, or creating habitat. To grow them successfully, start by understanding the specific goal of your planting. For example, milkweed and bee balm are best for pollinator gardens, while vetiver and creeping juniper are ideal for erosion control. Choose plants that are well-suited to your USDA zone, soil type, and light conditions to ensure long-term success.
Prepare the soil by enriching it with compost and ensuring good drainage. Plant during the recommended season—usually early spring or fall—and space according to mature size to prevent overcrowding. Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish, then reduce frequency once the plants are settled. Mulching helps conserve moisture and keeps weeds at bay.
Minimal pruning and occasional fertilizing will keep most specialty plants healthy. Whether you’re supporting bees, deterring deer, or stabilizing a hillside, these plants are powerful tools in building a purpose-driven, eco-friendly garden.
