Also known as Alligator Bonnet · American Water-Lily · American Waterlily
Nymphaea odorata, the American White Waterlily, is an aquatic perennial with fragrant, white flowers and large, round leaves that float on the water's surface.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Essential
100% intensity
Requires consistently submerged conditions in ponds or water gardens.
Clay, Sandy loam, Loam, Silty loam, Peaty loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate to warm conditions, with roots protected from extreme cold or heat.
Aquatic
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Benefits from specialized aquatic fertilizer applied sparingly in spring and mid-summer.
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
Ensure Nymphaea odorata is consistently submerged in at least 15-30 cm of still or slow-moving water. The rhizomes should be covered, but the crown should not be deeply buried.
Regular water level maintenance is crucial, especially during hot weather, to prevent drying out.
Remove yellowing or dead leaves and spent flower stalks regularly to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Trim any foliage that overcrowds the pond surface. Pruning encourages new growth and blooming.
Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts at the base of the stem.
Nymphaea odorata can be propagated by division of its rhizomes in early spring before new growth begins. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown in warm water.
Repot Nymphaea odorata every 2-3 years, ideally in early spring. Use a large, heavy pot (at least 30-45 cm in diameter) to prevent tipping.
Fill with a heavy loam or aquatic soil mix, avoiding peat-based composts which can cloud the water.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of American White Waterlily (Nymphaea odorata)
Where American White Waterlily (Nymphaea odorata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nymphaeaceae |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
| Species | Nymphaea odorata |
Similar in genus Nymphaea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
