Tiger lotus

Nymphaea lotus

Family : Nymphaeaceae

PlantFreshwaterbulbe

Tiger-striped floating leaf water lily, very decorative, requires a large aquarium.

Tiger lotus — photo 1 sur 4 — Wikimedia Commons contributor · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.51 / 4

Popularity

Easy plant

standard lighting, few requirements

Availability

Specialty only

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

West Africa

Rivières ouest-africaines : Niger, Congo, Cameroun.

Description

Nymphaea lotus is a tropical bulbous water lily. Its submerged leaves are green with purple spots, while floating leaves are green. White or pink flowers open at night. In the aquarium, it develops long stems and large leaves. It requires strong light and rich substrate. Growth is fast with CO2 supplementation. It can cover the surface, providing shade. Ideal as a background or centerpiece plant.

Habitat

Region :

Calm waters, lakes, marshes, slow rivers

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH6–7.5

GH3–12 °dGH

KH2–8 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 30 mg/L

Light

High

Care

Difficulty

3/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

50 L

Min. group

Adult size

30 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

division

Care notes

Medium difficulty. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5. Strong light (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended for optimal growth. Nutrient-rich substrate (aquasoil). Soft to moderately hard water. Trim floating leaves to control shading. Liquid and root fertilization. Compatible with peaceful fish. Avoid digging fish. Propagation by bulb division.

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