Red lotus

Nymphaea rubra is distinguished by its floating leaves often tinged with red or purple, especially under strong light. The bulbous rhizome produces long flexible stems. Submerged leaves are smaller and oval. The flowers, held above the water, are 10-15 cm and bright pink to red. The plant can reach 40 cm in height. It grows rapidly in summer and goes dormant in winter. In aquariums, it requires sufficient surface space. Propagation is by bulb division or seeds.