Plant Profile: Nymphaea 'Leopardess'

Water lilies encompass approximately 70 distinct species, categorized into tropical and hardy varieties. These plants thrive in water depths ranging from 3 inches to 3 feet, with their spread varying between 2 feet and 20 feet. Larger species require more expansive water gardens or ponds, while smaller varieties flourish in containers. They thrive best in still water, avoiding areas with fountains or strong currents. Most water lilies prefer full sunlight, although some can adapt to partial shade. Their flowers are not only visually striking but also typically emit a pleasant fragrance, complemented by their attractive lily pads. Notably, viviparous water lilies produce plantlets that remain attached to the parent plant.

One specific variety, 'Leopardess,' is a tropical water lily renowned for its vibrant cobalt blue flowers and mottled purple and green pads. This non-viviparous, free-flowering species is suitable for water gardens of any size.