Plant Profile: Nymphaea 'Emily Grant Hutchings'

Water lilies encompass approximately 70 distinct species, categorized into tropical and hardy varieties. These plants thrive in water depths ranging from 3 inches to 2 feet, with their spread varying between 2 to 20 feet. Larger species require more expansive water gardens or ponds, while smaller varieties can flourish in containers. They thrive in still water, avoiding areas with fountains or currents. Most water lilies prefer full sunlight, although some can adapt to partial shade. Their striking flowers are often fragrant, accompanied by prominent lily pads. Notably, viviparous water lilies produce plantlets that remain attached to the parent plant.

One specific variety, 'Emily Grant Hutchings,' is a tropical night-blooming water lily. This non-viviparous species is known for its abundant flowering, which begins early in the growing season. It is ideally suited for medium to large water gardens and is relatively easy to propagate, showing some tolerance for shaded conditions.