Plant Profile: Nymphaea 'St. Louis Gold'

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 to 20 feet. Larger species require more expansive water gardens or ponds, while smaller varieties can 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 striking flowers are often fragrant, complemented by their eye-catching lily pads. Notably, viviparous water lilies produce plantlets that remain attached to the parent plant.

One specific variety, 'St. Louis Gold,' is a tropical water lily known for its medium-sized, bright yellow blooms that are abundant and free-flowering. This nonviviparous species opens its flowers late in the day and keeps them open until late evening. It is suitable for small, medium, or large water gardens and can tolerate some shade.