Colorado Water Lily
The Colorado Water Lily (Nymphaea ‘Colorado’) is a stunning hardy hybrid renowned for its unusual salmon-pink blooms and prolific flowering habit. Bred for both beauty and performance, this variety is ideal for ponds of all sizes and thrives in a wide range of climates. Its vibrant color and compact growth make it a favorite among water gardeners across the country.
Key Features
Bloom Color: Soft peach to salmon-pink with yellow undertones
Bloom Size: 4–6 inches in diameter
Foliage: Olive-green leaves with occasional maroon flecks, each about 6–8 inches across
Blooming Period: Late spring through early fall
Growth Habit: Free-flowering with a spread of 3–5 feet
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun; minimum 5–6 hours of direct sunlight recommended
Water Depth: Ideal planting depth is 12 to 24 inches
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–10
Planting & Care
Planting Medium: Use heavy clay loam or aquatic soil; avoid potting mixes with bark or perlite
Container: Wide, shallow planting containers work best (2–3 gallons or larger)
Fertilization: Feed monthly with aquatic plant fertilizer tablets during growing season
Maintenance: Remove yellowing leaves and old blooms to encourage new growth
Winter Care: Hardy to Zone 4; plant rhizomes deep enough to avoid freezing or bring indoors in harsh winters
Benefits
Unique Color: One of the few hardy water lilies with peach-pink blooms
Fragrance: Lightly scented flowers add to the sensory appeal
Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and beneficial insects
Algae Control: Provides surface shade to help reduce algae growth
Compact Size: Great for small ponds or container water gardens
Availability
The Colorado Water Lily is widely available from aquatic nurseries and online garden suppliers. Look for bare-root plants or pre-potted specimens for easy transplanting into your pond or water feature.
Add warmth and elegance to your pond with the glowing blooms of the Colorado Water Lily—a top choice for color, hardiness, and repeat flowering all summer long.
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