Also known as Japanese Pond Lily · Japanese Spatterdock
East Asian yellow water-lily (Nuphar japonica) is an aquatic perennial with attractive yellow flowers and large, rounded leaves floating on the water surface.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Consistent
75% intensity
Requires submersion with 15-60 cm of water above the rhizome.
Heavy loam to sandy loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers water temperatures between 15-25°C during the growing season. Tolerates colder temperatures.
Aquatic
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal feeding, typically once in spring with a slow-release aquatic fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Maintain consistently moist soil and a water level of 15-60 cm over the rhizome. Avoid letting the soil dry out, especially during active growth.
In containers, ensure the water level remains stable, topping up as needed to compensate for evaporation.
Remove yellowing or dead leaves and flower stalks promptly to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage further blooming. Cut stems back close to the rhizome or water surface.
Minimal pruning is usually required beyond removing spent foliage.
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure each division has at least one growing point (bud).
Replant immediately into suitable aquatic soil, anchoring them firmly in the substrate.
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring as the rhizomes outgrow their containers. Use a large, sturdy aquatic plant pot with good drainage.
Fill with heavy loam or aquatic planting soil, avoiding overly rich or peaty mixes that can float.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of East Asian Yellow Water-Lily (Nuphar japonica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nuphar |
| Species | Nuphar japonica |
Similar in genus Nuphar
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
