Origins and Classification
- Scientific Name: Nymphaea mexicana (commonly known as Yellow Water Lily)
- Family: Nymphaeaceae
- Origin: Native to Central America, Mexico, and the southern United States, naturally found in calm freshwater ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
- Popularity: Loved for its bright yellow flowers, floating leaves, and ability to enhance ponds or large aquariums with stunning natural beauty.
🌿 Appearance
- Color & Structure:
- Flowers: Bright, lemon-yellow blooms with layered petals.
- Leaves: Green to olive-green floating pads, round or heart-shaped.
- Stems: Long flexible stems that reach the surface gracefully.
- Leaf Size: Typically 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) across.
- Flower Size: About 3–5 inches (8–12 cm).
- Growth Form: Floating-leaf plant with rooted base.
🏡 Tank & Pond Requirements
- Best Use: Ideal for outdoor ponds, water gardens, and large aquariums or tubs.
- Water Depth:
- Ponds: 12–24 inches depth.
- Large aquariums/tubs: 10–18 inches depth.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
- pH: 6.5–8.0
- Lighting: Moderate to high — needs good light to bloom.
- Substrate: Rich aquatic soil or clay; must be planted in a pot or pond bed.
- Habitat Setup:
- Allow open surface area for floating leaves.
- Provide calm or very slow-moving water.
