Nymphaea Ruby (Tropical Water Lily)

Nymphaea 'Ruby' is a stunning tropical water lily known for its deep red, almost ruby-colored flowers that bring a bold and dramatic flair to any water garden. With its robust growth and vibrant blooms, this water lily adds a touch of luxury and elegance to ponds and water features.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Red Flowers: The striking ruby-red flowers stand out in any water garden, creating a captivating focal point.
• Long Blooming Period: It flowers consistently throughout the warm months, ensuring continuous color and beauty.
• Low Maintenance: This variety is easy to care for, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
• Compact Size: Perfect for medium-sized ponds, this lily does not overwhelm its surroundings, offering balance and elegance.

Variety Features

• Flower Color: Rich, deep red with a hint of pink at the center, creating a bold and dramatic appearance.
• Flower Size: Medium to large flowers, typically around 5-7 inches in diameter.
• Leaf Color: Dark green, glossy leaves that contrast beautifully with the vibrant red flowers.
• Growth Habit: Spreads 2-3 feet wide, making it suitable for medium-sized ponds and water features.
• Hardiness Zone: Thrives in USDA Zones 10-11, where tropical conditions prevail.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Planting Time: Late spring or early summer, once the water temperature reaches 70°F (21°C) or higher for optimal growth.

Planting Details

• Planting Depth: Submerge the rhizomes 6-18 inches underwater for the best display of flowers above the water's surface.
• Spacing: Plant 2-3 feet apart to allow space for spreading and healthy growth.
• Soil Requirements: Use heavy clay soil or an aquatic planting mix to anchor the rhizomes securely.
• Sunlight: Full sun is essential for at least 6 hours a day to promote healthy blooming.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water Level: Keep the rhizomes submerged 6-18 inches underwater, allowing the flowers to float freely above the surface.
• Water Quality: Ensure clear water with minimal algae and debris for optimal plant health and flowering.

Fertilization

• Fertilizer: Use slow-release aquatic fertilizers designed for water lilies to encourage strong growth and vibrant flowers.
• Fertilizing Frequency: Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for best results.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain the plant’s appearance.
• Leaf Care: Trim damaged or dying leaves to keep the lily looking its best and prevent decay.

Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Watch for common aquatic pests like aphids or snails and treat them with organic pest control methods if necessary.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases and algae buildup by maintaining clean, well-filtered water.

Storage

• Winter Care: In colder climates, remove the rhizomes before the first frost and store them in a cool, dark location during the winter months.
• Storage Conditions: Keep the rhizomes moist and above freezing to prevent them from drying out.

Practical Uses

• Water Gardens: Ideal for adding color and vibrancy to water gardens, the ruby-red blooms create a striking contrast against green foliage.
• Ponds and Water Features: Adds a luxurious touch to ponds and water features with its bold flowers and graceful floating leaves.
• Tropical Decor: Complements tropical-themed gardens with its bright, exotic appeal.

Conclusion

Nymphaea 'Ruby' is a stunning tropical water lily that brings a splash of vibrant color to any pond or water garden. Its deep red flowers and ease of care make it a perfect choice for gardeners looking to add a bold and sophisticated touch to their aquatic landscape. With consistent blooms and minimal maintenance, this variety is ideal for medium-sized ponds or water features, where it will flourish and captivate all who see it.