Victoria amazonica, Victoria regia

The pink, fragrant flowers of this aquatic plant attract both butterflies and hummingbirds, some visiting as far away as South America and then wintering in North America.

Victoria amazonica is a popular ornamental plant in gardening and water garden displays, particularly in tropical and sub-tropical regions, as it requires a warm climate. These elegant blooms can range in color from white to off-white, or even light pink depending on the night they are opened. This is the largest known waterlily, with leaves reaching to 6ft across. Whilst Victoria amazonica loves full sun, it can also grow in semi-shade. The waterlily can be planted in a wide range of aquatic habitats including lakes, marshes, ponds, seasonal pools and slow-moving rivers, as well as in a bog garden.

In order to thrive, the Amazon Waterlily needs neutral or acidic, still water with a high nutrient content. The plants should be planted in soil within containers, and then placed in the water. In colder regions, it may be necessary to bring the Amazon Waterlily potted container indoors during wintertime. The container should be placed in shallow water in a warm spot out of direct sunlight, such as an empty bathtub. Allowing water to evaporate will leave the roots out of the water. The water depth should never get lower than 6 inches though. A balanced fertilizer specifically designed for waterlilies should be applied every two weeks. If the waterlily is grown in a pond, no additional fertilization is required as the fish, frogs, etc. in the pond will help keep natural nutrients levels optimal.

This exotic waterlily can be grown in USDA Zones 9-11, but if planted in colder regions, growers should be aware that the plant may not survive the winter months.

Overall, Victoria amazonica is an elegant and showy plant that offers an array of benefits and makes an excellent feature for any water garden.

Similar plants:

• Eugenia victoriana (Sundrop, Guayabilla)
• Victoria cruziana (Santa Cruz Water Lily)