The Water Lily Lotus plant is commonly cultivated outdoors in ponds or big water features, but it can also thrive as a houseplant, particularly the dwarf variety, given the right temperature and lighting conditions. Originally from Asia, Australia, and North America, this plant is an excellent hydroponic house plant option.
When it comes to appearance, Water Lily flowers are known for their large and showy blooms. While outdoor varieties can grow up to six feet tall and four feet wide, indoor dwarf versions tend to stay smaller. The plant’s foliage is also notable, with large and deep green leaves that float on the water’s surface in ponds or hydroponic setups. These flowers typically appear in summer and can come in shades of white, pink, or yellow.
If you want to grow a Water Lily Lotus, it’s important to note its sunlight requirements. This plant needs between four to six hours of direct sunlight per day. Some varieties may not bloom unless they get at least six hours of sunlight per day, so a South-facing window is ideal if possible. If not, a sunny window supplemented with an LED growth light can work as well.
To grow your Water Lily Lotus, a shallow glass bowl with a depth of six to eight inches is best. Add some small pebbles or glass beads to the bottom of the bowl for the plant’s rhizomes to cling to. Change the water every two to three weeks, or when it becomes murky; using a glass container makes it easy to tell when the water needs refreshing. From spring to fall, feed the plant with hydroponic fertilizer once per month, but avoid fertilizing in winter.
Lastly, keep in mind that Water Lily Lotus plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F and high humidity levels. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to growing gorgeous Water Lily flowers in no time!
For optimal growth, it is recommended to maintain temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 32 Celsius). The Water Lily Lotus thrives in a sunroom with South-facing windows. As long as the plant’s water levels are kept topped up, it can adapt to average household humidity.
To promote new flower production, prune expired blooms, and remove any dead or dying leaves. When pruning, ensure that you trim the stems back to within one to two inches from the rhizome.
Propagation of the Water Lily Lotus should be done in early spring, prior to flowering. Take a cutting that is two to four inches long with at least two “eyes” to sprout roots. Submerge the eyes in a glass filled with water, and change the water at least once a week until roots form. Once the roots are established, transplant the cutting outdoors or into a larger indoor vase.
Aphids and spider mites are common pests to watch for when growing the Water Lily Flower indoors. Use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to eliminate small infestations, while neem oil can be used to treat larger infestations.
The Lotus Water Lily is known for its stunning blooms and is typically associated with outdoor ponds. However, it can grow well indoors too, provided the right conditions are maintained. Bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home by growing this enchanting flower in your indoor space.