Chromatella Water Lily
The Chromatella Water Lily (Nymphaea ‘Marliacea Chromatella’) is a classic hardy aquatic perennial, cherished for its abundant, canary-yellow, cup-shaped blooms and its adaptability to various pond sizes. Hybridized by Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac in 1895, this cultivar has stood the test of time, earning the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for its exceptional performance and beauty.
Key Features
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Bloom Color: Soft canary-yellow with a pleasant fragrance
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Bloom Size: Approximately 4–6 inches in diameter
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Foliage: Dark green leaves with bronze or maroon mottling, each about 6–8 inches across
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Blooming Period: Late spring through early fall
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Growth Habit: Free-flowering with a spread of 3–5 feet, depending on growing conditions
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Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; blooms well with as little as 3–4 hours of sunlight daily
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Water Depth: Ideal planting depth ranges from 6 to 24 inches
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USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–10
Planting & Care
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Planting Medium: Use heavy loam or aquatic planting mix; avoid light, fluffy soils that can float away
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Container: Opt for a wide, shallow container (2-gallon capacity recommended) to accommodate the spreading rhizomes
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Fertilization: Apply aquatic plant fertilizer tablets every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote vigorous blooming
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Maintenance: Regularly remove yellowing leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health and aesthetics
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Winter Care: In colder climates, ensure the rhizomes are planted below the freeze line or overwinter them indoors in a cool, dark location
Benefits
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Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a bright, cheerful touch to ponds with its vibrant yellow flowers
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Ecosystem Support: Provides shade to reduce algae growth and offers habitat for aquatic wildlife
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Fragrance: Emits a pleasant scent, enhancing the sensory experience of your water garden
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Versatility: Suitable for various pond sizes, from small containers to large water gardens
Availability
The Chromatella Water Lily is widely available through aquatic plant nurseries and online retailers. When purchasing, ensure you receive healthy, bare-root specimens ready for planting.
Enhance your water garden with the timeless beauty and reliable performance of the Chromatella Water Lily—a true classic among aquatic plants.

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