Santa Cruz waterlily (Victoria cruziana) Synonyms:  V. trickeri Genus:  Victoria This giant waterlily produces massive, floating mid-green lily pads that can reach up to 8 feet across and can support the weight of a small adult. Its leaves are reddish purple and softly hairy on the underside. The ephemeral, pineapple-scented blooms appear in summer, lasting only two nights. The 16-inch flowers are white the first night, turning pink on the second night. Care:  Provide rich, loamy soil in containers at least 3 feet across and 2 feet deep or grow in a pool at least 3 feet deep. Plants need lots of heat and sun to thrive. Fertilize every 2 weeks during the growing season. Requires about 100 square feet of water surface with room to expand on all sides. Lilies will remain smaller if kept in a small container and are root-pruned, but they will grow quite large if potted up and fertilized regularly. They will flower in their first year if started indoors early. Propagation:  Sow seed in late winter in 2-3 inches of water at 84-90°F. Problems:  Infrequent.

Overview

Spread 15 ft. to 30 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Wet Characteristics Fragrant Flowers, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, White Uses Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point, Suitable as Annual Style Water Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Tropicals