How to Grow Amazonian Lily
Amazonian Lily
Eichhornia azurea
flowerAmazonian Lily is a beautiful aquatic flowering plant native to South America, featuring delicate lavender-blue flowers with distinctive yellow markings. It thrives in warm water environments and is popular for ornamental water gardens and aquariums. The plant produces elegant blooms that float above attractive foliage.
When should you plant Amazonian Lily in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Amazonian Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Amazonian Lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Amazonian Lily blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Amazonian Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11; requires warm climates or indoor/greenhouse cultivation
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Get my Amazonian Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung plant with developing root system and initial leaf growth just below water surface
Maintain stable water temperature; provide consistent light; avoid disturbance during rooting
Vegetative
4-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and leaves; foliage expands above and below water surface
Fertilize bi-weekly with aquatic fertilizer; monitor for nutrient deficiencies; thin crowded growth
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds emerge above water surface on tall stalks; buds are initially green then purple-tinged
Maintain optimal light and temperature; increase potassium-rich fertilizer; protect from water disturbance
Flowering
4-8 weeks (multiple flushes possible)Lavender-blue flowers with yellow centers bloom above foliage; flowers open in morning, close by evening
Continue fertilizing; deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms; maintain warm water
Seed Setting
3-4 weeksFlowers fade and seed pods may develop if pollinated; foliage remains lush
Allow some flowers to set seed for propagation; maintain plant health; continue regular care
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Manual removal; introduce fish predators; reduce plant matter decomposition in water
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Maintain water circulation; introduce fish predators; avoid overfeeding if fish present
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Maintain good water quality; remove decaying plant material; introduce fish predators
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Add aquatic shade plants; increase water circulation; perform partial water changes; add algaecide if severe
Uses
Ornamental edible flowers
CulinaryThe flowers are sometimes used as edible garnishes in upscale cuisine and specialty beverages. The delicate lavender blooms add visual appeal to salads and cocktails. [source]
Water garden decoration
HouseholdThe primary use is as an ornamental aquatic plant for decorative water gardens, ponds, and large aquariums. The striking blue-lavender flowers provide color and tropical aesthetic to water features. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn Amazonian folk medicine, the plant is traditionally used in herbal preparations to support general wellness. Some indigenous uses include making leaf infusions for various remedies. [source]
Pollinator and aquatic habitat support
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to water gardens. The plant structure provides habitat and shelter for small aquatic organisms and insects. [source]
Pressed flower decoration
CraftThe striking blue flowers are popular for pressing and using in botanical crafts, art, and decorative projects. The color and form make them suitable for scrapbooking and floral arrangements. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Amazonian Lilies are grown ornamentally for their flowers rather than harvest. Deadhead spent flowers regularly by gently removing them at the base to encourage continuous blooming. Collect seeds if desired by allowing flowers to mature and dry on the plant; seeds can be collected and stored in cool, dry conditions. The plant can be propagated by division of the rhizome in spring.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amazonian Lily flowers are heliotropic, meaning they follow the sun throughout the day and close in the evening, a behavior called nyctinasty.
- 🌱 The plant is a close relative of the water hyacinth and shares similar aquatic adaptations, including air-filled leaf petioles that allow it to float and regulate buoyancy.
- 🌱 In its native Amazonian habitat, this plant plays an important ecological role in flooded forests and wetlands, providing food and shelter for numerous aquatic species.
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