How to Grow Attraction Water Lily
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Attraction Water Lily
Nymphaea 'Attraction'
flowerAttraction is a stunning hybrid water lily cultivar prized for its deep red flowers with white stamens that bloom prolifically throughout the growing season. This deciduous aquatic perennial thrives in ponds and water gardens, producing floating lily pads and emerging flowers that attract pollinators and enhance water features. The cultivar is hardy, vigorous, and relatively easy to maintain compared to other ornamental water lilies.
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Example Attraction Water Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Attraction Water 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 Attraction Water Lily blooms
Around Apr 23≈ 6 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Attraction Water Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-10; most winter hardy in zones 5-9
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Planting & Establishment
2-4 weeksNewly potted rhizome with minimal shoot growth; heavy aquatic planting soil supports the plant
Plant in spring when water temperatures reach 60°F or higher; use pond baskets lined with burlap; apply aquatic fertilizer tablets weekly for first month
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksNew lily pads unfurl and spread across water surface; foliage increases rapidly as root system establishes
Thin out old or damaged pads to encourage new growth; continue fertilizing weekly; monitor water level and maintain 24-30 inches depth
Flower Bud Formation
1-2 weeksUnopened flower buds appear at water surface, initially emerging from tight sepals
Maintain consistent water depth and temperature; ensure 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily; continue weekly fertilization
Blooming
3-4 months (June-September in northern zones)Deep red flowers with white stamens open during morning hours; blooms 4-6 inches in diameter float or rise slightly above water surface
Flowers typically open in morning and close by afternoon; deadhead spent blooms by snapping stems below water line; expect continuous blooming every 3-5 days throughout growing season
Dormancy & Winter Prep
November-AprilFoliage yellows and dies back as water temperature drops below 60°F; plant enters dormancy in rhizome
In zones 4-5, move potted lilies to deepest part of pond (below frost line) or drain and store rhizomes in cool, moist location; in zones 6+, may overwinter in situ if water doesn't freeze solid; remove all dead foliage to reduce disease
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves below water surface; spray undersides of pads with insecticidal soap; introduce natural predators like dragonflies
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Remove affected leaves; maintain water clarity; improve pond circulation
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Spray with strong water jet to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs and beneficial insects
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and
(fungal infection)
Ensure good water circulation and aeration; avoid planting crown too deep; use bactericide treatments; remove rotted portions and repot in fresh soil
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Provide shade (40% coverage); add beneficial aquatic plants; use barley straw extract; increase water aeration; maintain nutrient balance
Uses
Ornamental garnish and edible flowers
CulinaryWhile 'Attraction' is primarily ornamental, water lily flowers and buds are edible in some cuisines and can garnish formal dishes and beverages. The petals have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor. [source]
Pond and water garden decoration
HouseholdAttraction is the primary use—its vibrant red flowers with white stamens create a dramatic focal point in backyard water gardens, koi ponds, and decorative basins. Blooms float gracefully on the water surface. [source]
Traditional water lily remedies
MedicinalWater lilies have been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Some cultures use water lily extracts for skin conditions and digestive health, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator and aquatic ecosystem support
WildlifeNymphaea flowers attract bees, water beetles, and other aquatic insects. The floating pads provide habitat and feeding grounds for frogs, aquatic insects, and dragonfly nymphs, supporting biodiversity in ponds. [source]
Cut flower arrangements and floral displays
CraftThe stunning red blooms with white stamens are prized for high-end floral arrangements, especially in Asian and contemporary designs. Cut flowers should be placed in shallow water basins to maintain freshness. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Water lilies are ornamental; 'harvest' by enjoying blooms in situ. Cut flowers by snapping stems below water surface early in the morning when blooms are fully open. Flowers last 3-4 days in a vase with fresh water changed daily. Deadhead spent blooms underwater to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Attraction is a hybrid water lily that combines the cold-hardiness of temperate species with the prolific blooming habit of tropical varieties, making it one of the most reliable red water lilies for northern gardeners.
- 🌱 Water lily flowers open and close on a daily cycle—they typically open in mid-morning and close by mid-afternoon, then repeat the pattern the next day; this behavior is triggered by light and temperature changes.
- 🌱 A single mature Nymphaea 'Attraction' plant can produce 50+ blooms per season, making it an exceptional choice for cut flower production in water gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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