Water Lily

Water Lily (Nymphaea spp.) is a hardy aquatic plant suited to outdoor pond environments. Naturally found in slow-moving waters, marshes, and pond margins across temperate and tropical zones. Used in ornamental pond design for visual interest, biological filtration, and providing cover for fish.

Water Lily requires a minimum of 200 gallons (pond) for healthy adults. The minimum is based on the species' adult size (24 inch spread), territorial range, and behavior pattern. Most Water Lily sold at small juvenile size will reach full adult size within 12-24 months and the system must be sized to the adult, not the juvenile.

For a Water Lily setup: outdoor pond with appropriate depth (3+ feet for cold-climate winterization), filtration sized 1.5-2x pond volume per hour, UV clarifier for green-water control, surface skimmer for leaf litter, and either a bottom drain or annual full cleanout.

Browse our 120-gallon aquarium guide for the complete equipment list.

Water Lily prefers pond parameters appropriate to your climate zone:
Temperature: 50-78°F seasonal swing acceptable for cold-tolerant species; tropical pond species need 70°F+ year-round.
pH: 7.0-8.5
Ammonia + nitrite: Both 0 ppm
Nitrate: Under 40 ppm in established ponds
Dissolved oxygen: 5+ mg/L (aerator non-optional in summer)

Pond water chemistry shifts with rainfall, leaf decay, and bioload. Test biweekly during active season; perform 10-25% water changes monthly to maintain stable parameters.

Water Lily is a photosynthetic. Powered primarily by photosynthesis through symbiotic zooxanthellae living in the tissue. Supplemental feeding of reef foods supports faster growth but is optional once light + parameters are dialed in. Feed Water Lily appropriately for its size + activity level. Overfeeding is the #1 cause of water-quality crashes in tanks of all sizes.

Water Lily is compatible with similar-temperament pond fish at appropriate stocking. Mixing predatory species (largemouth bass) with smaller pond fish (minnows, juvenile koi) creates a food chain. Plan stocking around adult sizes and territorial behaviors.

Browse care guides for tankmate-compatibility tables for Water Lily and similar species.

Water Lily reaches 24 inch spread at adulthood with a captive lifespan of perennial years with proper care. Pond fish often outlive their owners under proper care - koi can live 25-50+ years with stable parameters.

Water Lily propagates through tubers, runners, or division depending on the plant. Most aquatic plants propagate freely once established; trim and replant healthy growth in spring.

Water Lily can develop pond-specific issues: parasites (ich, costia, trichodina), bacterial infections (ulcers, fin rot), and seasonal stress around water temperature transitions. Maintain stable temperature changes (no more than 5°F per day during seasonal shifts), feed appropriately for water temperature, and inspect fish during spring restart for signs of overwintering damage.

Water Lily is sold at LFS (local fish stores), online retailers, and direct from breeders/wholesalers. Pricing varies widely by source, size, and quality:

Budget tier: $5-25
Mid-tier: $15-50
Premium tier: $40-150

Browse live Water Lily from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping (FedEx Priority + UPS Next Day), climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims. Captive-bred or aquacultured specimens cost more upfront but arrive healthier and integrate faster.

How big does Water Lily get?

24 inch spread at adulthood within 12-24 months.

How long does Water Lily live?

perennial years with proper care.

What is the minimum tank/pond size?

200 gallons (pond), with larger systems strongly recommended.

Is Water Lily hard to keep?

Water Lily is rated beginner difficulty.

What does Water Lily eat?

Water Lily is a photosynthetic; appropriate diet matches its natural feeding pattern.

Where can I buy Water Lily?

Browse live Water Lily from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked Buyer Protection and a 4-hour DOA window.

How much does Water Lily cost?

$5-150 depending on source and quality.

Do I need to quarantine Water Lily?

Yes - quarantine new Water Lily for 4-6 weeks in a separate tank before adding to your display.

Is Water Lily reef safe?

Not applicable - Water Lily is not a marine reef species.