Origin
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker, commonly known as the American white waterlily, originates in North and Central America.
Common Names
Besides the American white waterlily, the Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker has many common names, such as giant waterlily, fragrant waterlily, and cow cabbage.
Uses
The American white waterlily has several uses, including medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. The root of the plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat gastrointestinal problems, while the flowers are edible and can be used in salads. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes in water gardens and natural water bodies due to its attractive and fragrant flowers.
General Appearance
The American white waterlily is a perennial aquatic plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has large, rounded leaves that float on the water surface, and the flowers emerge above the leaves on a stem. The flowers are white or pink in color and emit a sweet fragrance. The plant's roots are submerged in the soil or mud at the bottom of the water body.
Growth Conditions for Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker, commonly known as giant water lily, is a species of aquatic flowering plant in the family Nymphaeaceae. This plant is native to North America and has a specific set of growth conditions required for its optimal growth.
Light
Giant water lilies require full sunlight for their growth and optimal flowering. Therefore, it is important to place them in a location where they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, too much sunlight may lead to excess algae growth in the water, which can decrease the plant's growth and eventually lead to its death. Therefore, it's important to manage the amount of sunlight by providing shade as needed.
Temperature
These water lilies require a temperature range of 70-85°F (21-29°C) for optimal growth. However, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 60°F (15°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C). Temperature fluctuations can stress the plant, so it's important to monitor the water temperature and make necessary adjustments to maintain a stable temperature range.
Soil Requirements
Giant water lilies require a rich, organic substrate that's heavy in clay, silt, and loam. The substrate should have a pH range of 6.5-7.5 and be placed in a pot that provides adequate drainage. The water depth should be 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) and the pot should be placed in a pond or other aquatic setting that allows the water to circulate around the plant. Regular fertilizer applications are also necessary for optimal plant growth and flowering.
Overall, giant water lilies require specific growth conditions for optimal growth and should be carefully managed to ensure their long-term survival.
Cultivation methods for Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker is a water plant that requires shallow water to grow. It can be grown in ponds, water gardens, and water features. Plant the rhizomes in containers filled with loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Place the containers in the shallow end of the pond or water feature, making sure that the containers are submerged up to 6 inches deep, and the leaves are resting on the surface of the water.
Alternatively, you can plant the rhizomes directly in the soil at the bottom of the pond or water feature, making sure that the water is shallow enough to allow the leaves to float on the surface.
Watering needs of Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker is a water plant that requires constant access to water. However, it is important to keep the water level between 6 inches to 18 inches deep, depending on the size of the plant. Plants that are too deep in the water may have difficulty reaching the surface, which can impact the growth of the leaves and blooms.
It is also important to ensure that the water is clean and free of debris, which can negatively impact the health of the plant.
Fertilization of Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker will benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. Use a fertilizer that is specially formulated for aquatic plants and follow the instructions on the package carefully. Over-fertilization can cause algae blooms, so it is essential to apply the fertilizer in the ratio recommended by the manufacturer.
Apply fertilizer once a month, starting in late spring and continuing through the growing season. Stop fertilizing in the fall to allow the plant to prepare for winter dormancy.
Pruning of Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker requires little pruning. Deadheading the spent blooms will help promote new growth and increased blooming, as well as keeping the plant looking tidy. Remove any yellowing leaves or damaged foliage, as this can indicate a problem with the plant’s health. Overgrown plants can be divided to create new plants and prevent overcrowding.
Propagation of Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker
Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker, commonly known as American white waterlily, giant water lily, or cow lily, can be propagated through various methods including seeds, rhizomes, and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are the easiest way to propagate Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker. Collect the seeds in the fall and sow them in the spring, after the last frost. Before sowing, scarify the seeds by gently rubbing them with a fine-grit sandpaper or nicking the hard coat with a sharp knife. Soak the seeds in warm water overnight, or until they swell. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep in moist soil, cover with a thin layer of sand or gravel, and keep the soil moist and warm (at least 70°F).
Propagation through Rhizomes
Rhizomes are the thick, fleshy roots or creeping stems that grow horizontally under the soil surface. Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or fall, after the plant has finished blooming. Dig up the plant carefully, separate the healthy rhizomes from the old or rotted ones, and cut them into sections that have at least one healthy bud or shoot and some roots. Plant the rhizome sections in individual containers or pots, burying them about 2 inches deep in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and the containers in a warm, bright, and sheltered location until new growth appears.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings are another way of propagating Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker, but they are less reliable than seeds or rhizomes. Take cuttings of about 6 inches from the healthy stems, just below a node or leaf joint. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in propagating soil, burying them about 1 inch deep, and water them well. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse, and place it in a warm and bright spot, but out of direct sunlight. Spray the cuttings with water every day to keep the soil moist and reduce the risk of wilting or drying.
Disease Management
The Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker plant can be affected by several diseases, such as:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora nympheae. It appears as small, grayish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected leaves immediately and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by various fungi in the water. The infected plant will show signs of wilting and yellowing leaves. To manage root rot, remove and destroy any infected parts of the plant and minimize watering.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the leaves of Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker. This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. To manage it, remove and destroy any infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
It is essential to keep the plant healthy by ensuring it receives the right amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Pest Management
Some pests that might affect the Nymphaea odorata Ait. var. gigantea Tricker plant include:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage them, introduce beneficial insects that prey on aphids or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Water Lily Beetle: This beetle can cause significant damage by feeding on the leaves, buds, and flowers. To manage them, introduce water lily resistant varieties or encourage natural predators like ducks or use insecticides.
- Snails and Slugs: These pests can cause damage by feeding on the leaves of the plant, leaving large holes. To manage them, pick them off manually or use copper barriers, which irritate their slime trail, or use snail and slug baits.
It is crucial to monitor the plant regularly for pests and take appropriate action immediately to prevent their spread.
