Dharaseeds
Sanam Chai (Tropical Water Lily)
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
The Nymphaea 'Sanam Chai', a tropical water lily, features beautiful and striking yellow flowers that stand out against the rich green foliage. This variety is well-known for its bold, vibrant color, and it thrives in warm climates, adding an exotic and tropical flair to ponds and water gardens.
Key Benefits
- Vibrant Yellow Blooms: The 'Sanam Chai' produces stunning yellow flowers that create a striking contrast against the dark green lily pads, making it an eye-catching feature in any pond or water garden.
- Large, Showy Flowers: The flowers are large, typically reaching up to 6-8 inches in diameter, making them a prominent feature in your aquatic space.
- Tropical Beauty: With its tropical appeal, this water lily is perfect for bringing an exotic touch to your garden, especially in warm climates or tropical environments.
- Low Maintenance: While it thrives in tropical environments, 'Sanam Chai' is relatively easy to maintain, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: The large, fragrant flowers attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy ecosystem in your water garden.
Variety Features
- Flower Color: Bright yellow flowers that stand out vibrantly against the dark green lily pads.
- Flower Size: The flowers typically measure between 6-8 inches in diameter, creating an impressive focal point in the pond.
- Leaf Color: Dark green leaves provide a lovely contrast to the bright yellow blooms.
- Growth Habit: Nymphaea 'Sanam Chai' grows moderately, making it ideal for medium to large ponds.
- Growth Zones: Best suited for USDA Zones 10-11, it thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with warm temperatures and full sun exposure.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Best Planting Time: Plant 'Sanam Chai' in late spring or early summer when water temperatures remain consistently above 70°F (21°C).
Planting Details
- Planting Depth: Place the rhizome about 18-24 inches below the water surface to allow the roots to establish properly and the leaves to float on top of the water.
- Spacing: Space each water lily about 3-4 feet apart for optimal growth and to prevent overcrowding.
- Soil Requirements: Use nutrient-rich aquatic soil, or plant the rhizome in a water lily basket for stability.
- Sunlight: Ensure the water lily receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to encourage blooming and healthy growth.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water Level: Maintain a consistent water level to ensure the rhizome stays submerged while the flowers and leaves float above the surface.
- Water Quality: Use clean, slightly acidic water and replace it periodically to prevent stagnation.
Fertilization
- Fertilizer: Apply slow-release aquatic fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and encourage blooms throughout the growing season.
- Fertilizing Frequency: Fertilize at the start of the growing season and again midway through summer to continue producing abundant flowers.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage new flowers and maintain the plant's aesthetic appeal.
- Leaf Care: Trim any damaged or yellowing leaves to prevent them from affecting the overall health of the plant.
Pest and Disease Management
- Pests: Though generally resistant to pests, keep an eye out for snails or aphids, which may target the leaves and flowers. Treat organically if necessary.
- Diseases: Avoid overcrowding and ensure your pond has good circulation to prevent diseases caused by stagnant water.
Storage
- Winter Care: In colder regions, 'Sanam Chai' should be removed from the pond before the first frost. Store the rhizomes in a cool, moist area over the winter.
- Winter Storage Conditions: Keep the rhizomes in a frost-free location, ensuring they stay moist until the next growing season.
Practical Uses
- Pond Aesthetics: The vibrant yellow blooms of 'Sanam Chai' are perfect for adding a tropical and colorful touch to any pond or water garden.
- Wildlife Support: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in your water garden.
- Tropical Ambiance: This water lily is ideal for creating a tropical or exotic atmosphere in your pond or water feature.
Conclusion
The Nymphaea 'Sanam Chai' is a striking tropical water lily known for its vibrant yellow blooms and bold appearance. It is a perfect addition to any pond or water garden, adding a touch of elegance and tropical beauty. Easy to maintain and offering a visually impressive display, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their garden with exotic water lilies.