Overview:
Nymphaea orbiculata Small, commonly known as the Small Round-leaved Water Lily, is an aquatic plant species that belongs to the family Nymphaeaceae. It is native to North America and is found in the eastern United States. It is a rhizomatous perennial that grows in still or slow-moving waters of ponds, lakes, and streams.
Appearance:
The Small Round-leaved Water Lily has a distinctive appearance, with round leaves that float on the water surface and pink to white flowers that rise above the water. The leaves are bright green and circular, measuring up to 20 cm in diameter, with a wavy edge. The flowers are generally 3 to 5 cm in diameter and have numerous petals arranged around a yellow center. The flowers bloom from June to September and have a sweet fragrance that attracts various insects, including bees and butterflies.
Uses:
The Small Round-leaved Water Lily has a number of uses in traditional medicine, as the roots and leaves have various therapeutic properties. Native American tribes used the plant in the treatment of several ailments, including diarrhea, respiratory problems, and infections. The plant also has cosmetic uses, as the leaves produce astringent compounds that help tighten and firm the skin. In modern times, the plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes, as its beautiful flowers and foliage make it a popular addition to water gardens and ponds.
Common Names:
The Small Round-leaved Water Lily has several common names, including Small Water Lily, Float-leaved Water Lily, and Coastal Water Lily. In the past, it was also known as Nymphaea microphylla, but this name is now considered a synonym of Nymphaea orbiculata.
Light Requirements
Nymphaea orbiculata Small, commonly known as the American white waterlily, requires full sunlight for proper growth and development. The water depth must also be shallow, ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 meters, to provide sufficient sunlight exposure. If the plant is grown in shaded areas, it will produce fewer leaves and flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The American white waterlily grows well in warm water environments. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 22°C and 30°C. If temperatures drop below 15°C, the plant will become dormant and stop growing. Similarly, if temperatures exceed 35°C, the plant can experience dehydration and wilting.
Soil Requirements
The American white waterlily grows best in nutrient-rich, clay or loamy soils. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The ideal pH range is between 6.5 and 7.5. In addition, a layer of organic matter can be added to the soil to improve soil fertility and provide additional nutrients that the plant needs for healthy growth.
Cultivation
Nymphaea orbiculata Small, also known as the floating heart, has a wide range of hardiness zones and can be grown in almost any part of the world. The plant thrives in full sun and slightly acidic to neutral water, so you should choose a location with plenty of direct sunlight.
It is possible to grow the plant in containers in ponds, pools, or any other still water body. In a pond, the water depth should be at least 30 cm, while in a container, it should be about 15 cm.
Watering
Since Nymphaea orbiculata Small is an aquatic plant, it does not require watering in the traditional sense. However, adequate water levels should be maintained, and the plant's leaves should not be allowed to dry out.
The plant's water level should be such that the leaves float on the surface of the water. You should replenish water if the levels drop below the required minimum or if the water evaporates.
Fertilization
The floating heart does well with regular fertilization. You should use a slow-release fertilizer with high amounts of phosphate and potassium for best results. The fertilizer should be added to the water at a rate specified on the package.
The frequency of fertilization varies, but every two weeks is often recommended. Over-fertilizing can lead to plant death, so ensure that you use the correct amount.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the growth and good health of Nymphaea orbiculata Small. You should remove dead or dying leaves, flowers, and stems using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears.
Pruning should be carried out regularly throughout the growing season as new growth appears. You should also thin out excessively dense growth or overgrown plants to give other plants space to grow.
Note that leaving dead leaves and flowers in the water body can encourage algae blooms and other negative water quality issues, so be sure to remove them correctly.
Propagation of Nymphaea orbiculata Small
Nymphaea orbiculata Small, commonly known as the white water lily, is a floating aquatic plant that is popular for its attractive white flowers and decorative leaves. The plant is propagated by several methods, including division, seeds, and cuttings.
Division
Division is the most common method used for propagating Nymphaea orbiculata. It involves separating the plant's rhizomes, which are underground stems that produce roots and shoot growth. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or early summer, when it is actively growing. The process involves carefully removing the plant from the water and gently separating the rhizomes with a sharp knife. Each division should have at least one healthy shoot and a set of roots. The divisions are then replanted in separate containers or another suitable location.
Seeds
Propagation by seeds is another method that can be used for Nymphaea orbiculata. The plant produces seeds that are enclosed in a fruit, which is embedded in the plant's flowers. The fruit should be harvested when it turns brown. The seeds can be removed from the fruit and washed with clean water to remove any pulp. They should then be soaked in warm water for 48 hours before planting them in a container filled with soil and water. The container should be placed in bright light but away from direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate within one to two weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are a less common method of propagating Nymphaea orbiculata. The process involves taking a stem section that has a active growth shoot and a couple healthy leaves. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting it in a container filled with soil and water. The container should be placed in bright light but away from direct sunlight and the cutting should develop roots and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Nymphaea orbiculata Small
Nymphaea orbiculata Small, also known as the floating heart, is a plant that is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it is not immune to certain pests and diseases that can cause harm. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
The most common disease that affects Nymphaea orbiculata is fungal leaf spot. This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora nymphaeae, and it appears as small, round, brown or gray spots on the leaves of the plant. In severe cases, the spots may merge, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
To manage fungal leaf spot, it is essential to remove the infected leaves as soon as possible and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and remove any debris from the water surface to limit the fungal spores' spread. Fungicides like chlorothalonil can also be used to control the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pest that affects Nymphaea orbiculata is the waterlily leaf beetle. The beetle is about 6mm long, and its larvae feed on leaves, causing them to turn brown and die.
To manage the waterlily leaf beetle, it is essential to keep the plant healthy with adequate feeding and watering. Regular inspection of leaves can help identify any infested leaves, which must be removed and destroyed. Insecticides like pyrethroids can also be applied to control the beetles.
In conclusion, Nymphaea orbiculata, being generally pest and disease resistant, requires minimal management. However, prompt identification and management of any disease or pest that affects the plant are essential to keep it healthy and thriving.
