Dharaseeds
Nymphaea Islamorada
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Nymphaea 'Islamorada' is a tropical water lily known for its stunning, vibrant pink blooms that feature a striking yellow center. This variety adds a burst of color and elegance to any pond or water garden, offering a breathtaking display of flowers that will captivate and brighten any aquatic landscape.
Key Benefits
- Vibrant Pink Blooms: The bold pink flowers with a yellow center create a beautiful contrast, making them a standout feature in your pond.
- Long Blooming Season: Enjoy continuous blooms from late spring through fall, enhancing your garden throughout the warm months.
- Compact Growth Habit: Perfect for medium to large ponds, this water lily has a manageable spread.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to grow, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Variety Features
- Flower Color: Vibrant pink petals with a contrasting yellow center, providing a dynamic visual appeal.
- Flower Size: Medium to large flowers, typically 5-8 inches in diameter, that rise elegantly above the water.
- Leaf Color: Glossy, dark green leaves that add to the plant's overall beauty and provide a perfect backdrop for the colorful blooms.
- Growth Habit: Spreads up to 3 feet wide, making it suitable for larger ponds and water gardens.
- Hardiness Zone: Best suited for USDA Zones 10-11, where tropical conditions are ideal.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Best Planting Time: Late spring to early summer, when the water temperature consistently reaches 70°F (21°C) or higher.
Planting Details
- Planting Depth: Submerge the rhizomes 6-18 inches below the water surface to allow the flowers to float above the water.
- Spacing: Space the plants about 2-3 feet apart to ensure enough room for growth and proper air circulation.
- Soil Requirements: Use aquatic soil or heavy clay soil to support healthy root development and prevent the rhizomes from floating.
- Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours a day) is essential for optimal flowering.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water Level: Ensure the rhizomes are submerged at a depth of 6-18 inches, with the flowers floating on top of the water.
- Water Quality: Keep the water clear and free of debris to support healthy plant growth and prevent algae buildup.
Fertilization
- Fertilizer: Apply a slow-release aquatic fertilizer to enhance flowering and plant health.
- Fertilizing Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to encourage robust blooms.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and to maintain the plant’s tidy appearance.
- Leaf Care: Trim any damaged or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking fresh and healthy.
Pest and Disease Management
- Pests: Check for common pond pests like aphids or snails. Use organic pest control methods to maintain plant health.
- Diseases: To prevent disease, regularly clean the water and remove decaying plant matter.
Storage
- Winter Care: In colder climates, lift the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a cool, dark location where temperatures stay above freezing.
- Storage Conditions: Keep the rhizomes slightly moist and store them in a place that allows them to remain dormant without freezing.
Practical Uses
- Water Gardens: Perfect for medium to large ponds, this tropical water lily brings vibrant color and beauty to your aquatic space.
- Tropical Garden Themes: Ideal for tropical and water-themed gardens, offering a bold and eye-catching display.
- Pond Aesthetics: Its striking flowers make it a focal point in any pond or water garden, especially when paired with complementary plants.
Conclusion
Nymphaea 'Islamorada' is a spectacular tropical water lily with vibrant pink flowers that add a dramatic flair to any pond or water garden. Its bright blooms, combined with a manageable growth habit and easy care requirements, make it a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to enhance their aquatic spaces with a bold and beautiful flowering plant. Whether in a large pond or water feature, 'Islamorada' will undoubtedly be a stunning addition to your garden.