Water lilies are probably the most recognized floating plants of Missouri. The circular, green leaves float on the water surface and can reach 12 inches in diameter. They provide a great hiding place for frogs, bluegills, sunfish, and other aquatic creatures. The beautiful, fragrant flowers are white or pink and up to 6 inches across. They attract bees, beetles, and other pollinators.
If introducing water lilies to a pond, be aware that a single plant can cover about 15 feet of water surface in 5 years or so. Once 40% of the water surface is covered, low oxygen conditions can occur and negatively impact the pond's ecosystem. Water lilies typically don't grow in water deeper than 5 to 8 feet. They do well in large water features where they can be grown in submerged containers.
Uses: Wildlife, pollinators, showy flowers
Bloom time: June - October
Grows in water up to 8 feet deep
Sun: Full sun to very light shade
