How to Grow Blue Water Lily
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Blue Water Lily
Nymphaea colorata
flowerNymphaea colorata is a tropical water lily species prized for its striking blue flowers with yellow stamens. Native to Thailand, this aquatic plant thrives in warm water and produces large, round floating leaves characteristic of water lilies. It's a popular choice for ornamental ponds and water gardens in warm climates.
When should you plant Blue Water Lily in your zone?
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Example Blue Water Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blue 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 Blue Water Lily blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Blue Water Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; requires warm water year-round (minimum 60°F, ideally 70-85°F)
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Get my Blue Water Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Sprouting
1-2 weeksNew shoots emerge from the rhizome and reach toward the water surface
Ensure water temperature is consistently warm (70°F+). Keep planting containers stable and fully submerged.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksFloating leaves unfold on the water surface; plant establishes root system
Apply aquatic fertilizer tablets monthly. Remove any damaged leaves. Monitor for algae growth on leaves.
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksFlower buds develop just above the water surface among the floating leaves
Increase fertilizer frequency. Ensure 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily. Protect buds from wind if possible.
Flowering
2-4 months (continuous blooming in warm season)Blue flowers with yellow stamens open in early morning and close by afternoon; typically lasts 3-4 days per bloom
Continue regular fertilization. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Keep water clean and at optimal temperature.
Seed Development
3-4 weeksAfter fertilization, seed pods form underwater or flowers sink beneath surface if not removed
Remove mature seed pods if propagation is not desired, as they divert energy. Collect seeds in sealed jars for storage if propagating.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves manually; use insecticidal soap; introduce aquatic insects like dragonfly nymphs as natural predators
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Hand-pick beetles and larvae; remove heavily infested leaves; maintain water quality to support natural predator populations
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase water circulation; maintain adequate humidity
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Handpick snails; introduce fish like goldfish that eat snails; use physical barriers if necessary
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Remove affected leaves promptly; improve water circulation; maintain clean water; avoid overcrowding
Uses
Culinary Use (Flowers & Seeds)
CulinaryWater lily flowers are edible with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are used in Asian cuisine and salads. Seeds are eaten roasted or ground into flour in traditional Southeast Asian cooking. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn traditional Thai and Ayurvedic medicine, Nymphaea colorata has been used to treat fever, inflammation, and digestive issues. The plant is believed to have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Ornamental Pond Enhancement
HouseholdAs an ornamental aquatic plant, it provides aesthetic beauty to water gardens and ponds while helping to shade water and reduce algae growth through leaf coverage. [source]
Aquatic Habitat & Pollinator Support
WildlifeWater lily flowers attract bees, beetles, and other pollinators. The floating leaves provide habitat and resting places for aquatic insects, frogs, and birds. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Decoration
CraftThe striking blue flowers are prized for cut flower arrangements and floral designs. Flowers last several days in water and make elegant decorative centerpieces. [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 flowers primarily enjoyed in situ. Flowers can be cut in early morning when they open for indoor arrangements (they will close and reopen). Cut stems 12-18 inches below the water surface. Harvest seeds from mature pods by collecting them in water, cleaning, and drying for storage. Seeds remain viable for several years when stored dry.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Nymphaea colorata flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon, typically remaining open for 3-4 consecutive days before sinking or dropping from the plant.
- 🌱 This species is native to Thailand and is closely related to the sacred lotus; unlike true lotus, water lilies have floating leaves and flowers that sit on or just above the water surface.
- 🌱 Water lily leaves (called pads) can grow quite large—up to 12 inches in diameter—and are coated with a waxy, water-repellent cuticle that keeps them dry and helps water droplets bead off.
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