How to Grow Pearl of the Pool Water Lily
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Pearl of the Pool Water Lily
Nymphaea 'Pearl of the Pool'
flowerPearl of the Pool is a hybrid day-blooming water lily prized for its large, fragrant white flowers with yellow centers. This cultivar is a vigorous grower suitable for medium to large ponds and water gardens. It produces abundant blooms throughout the growing season and develops attractive floating foliage.
When should you plant Pearl of the Pool Water Lily in your zone?
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Example Pearl of the Pool Water Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pearl of the Pool 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 Pearl of the Pool Water Lily blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pearl of the Pool Water Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-11; hardy in cooler climates when properly protected
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Dormancy/Planting
1-2 weeks before sproutingRhizome is dormant with minimal visible growth; stored cool or planted in spring as water warms
Plant in spring when water temperature reaches 50-60°F; ensure crown is at soil surface to prevent rot
Early Growth
2-3 weeksYoung shoots and leaves emerge from rhizome; initial leaves are small and underwater
Maintain consistent water depth; begin light fertilization; protect from fish that may uproot young plants
Vegetative/Establishment
3-4 weeksLeaves expand and reach water surface; floating leaves appear; plant spreads across allocated space
Apply aquatic fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; remove any diseased or damaged leaves; thin crowded foliage if needed
Flowering
June through September (or longer in warm zones)Large white flowers with yellow centers emerge on sturdy stems; blooms open in morning and close by afternoon; profuse flowering throughout season
Continue regular fertilization to support continuous blooming; deadhead spent flowers to encourage new buds; monitor for pests on flower buds
Decline/Dormancy
October-March (varies by zone)Flowering slows as temperatures cool; leaves turn yellow or reddish; plant enters senescence in fall
Reduce fertilization in late summer; remove dead foliage to prevent water quality issues; in cold zones, prepare rhizome for winter storage or mulch protection
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves and discard; in severe cases, use neem oil spray on foliage above water; introduce natural predators like dragonflies
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge; use insecticidal soap suitable for water gardens; encourage beneficial insects
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Prevent with proper planting depth (crown above soil); remove affected plants immediately; ensure good water circulation and avoid overfeeding
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Protect young plants with netting; use plant guards or baskets with barriers; plant in separate pools if possible
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Generally tolerate; protect delicate new shoots if damage is excessive with mesh guards
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryWater lily flowers are edible and prized as elegant garnishes for desserts, salads, and specialty beverages. The petals are mildly sweet and add decorative appeal to gourmet dishes. [source]
Traditional herbal remedies
MedicinalWater lilies have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support relaxation and promote sleep. The flowers and leaves contain compounds with mild sedative and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Fresh and dried floral arrangements
CraftThe large, fragrant white flowers are stunning in fresh floral displays and can be pressed or dried for lasting arrangements. Their classic beauty makes them ideal for special occasions and artistic compositions. [source]
Pollinator and aquatic ecosystem support
WildlifeWater lily blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to water gardens. The floating foliage and root systems provide habitat and spawning grounds for fish, frogs, and aquatic invertebrates. [source]
Water garden focal point and aesthetic
HouseholdPearl of the Pool transforms a pond or water feature into a stunning focal point with its elegant white blooms and lush foliage. It enhances the visual appeal and tranquility of any garden setting. [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—harvest individual blooms by cutting stems early in the morning when flowers open; blooms last 3-4 days in a vase of fresh water; cut at an angle just below the water surface for arranging
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Water lilies are among the oldest flowering plants, with fossil evidence dating back over 100 million years; they were sacred to ancient Egyptian and Hindu cultures
- 🌱 The blooms of 'Pearl of the Pool' open in early morning and close by afternoon, a behavior called nyctinasty that protects the flower from evening moisture and nighttime temperature drops
- 🌱 Water lilies have specially adapted leaves with a waxy coating and air-filled cells that allow them to float perfectly level on the water surface, regardless of water depth
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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