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Dwarf Lily (Nymphaea stellata)

The Dwarf Lily grows from a bulb into a rosette of arrow-shaped leaves that range from green to deep red and bronze depending on light. It is an easy, fast bulb plant that quickly becomes a colorful centerpiece, but it will rush to send floating lily pads to the surface; trim those pad stems at the base to keep it growing as a submerged bush. Plant the bulb with its growing tip exposed.

Care specifications

TypeBulb
DifficultyEasy
LightMedium (35–80 µmol PAR)
CO2Beneficial, not required
Fertilizer demandMedium
Growth rateFast
Max height16 in
Spread10 in
PlacementMidground, Background
Attaches to hardscapeNo
Snail & shrimp safeYes
Temperature72–82 °F
pH6–7.5
ColorRed
TrimmingRegular
StylesNature, Jungle, Dutch

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Dwarf Lily

Dwarf Lily Plant

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Propagation

Grows from a bulb and forms daughter bulblets at the base; it also sends up surface pads that can be pruned to keep it submerged.

Frequently asked questions

How do I stop my Dwarf Lily from sending leaves to the surface?

It naturally wants to put up floating pads. Snip each pad stem off at the base as it appears, and the plant will keep producing submerged leaves instead, staying a compact underwater bush.

Why is my Dwarf Lily green instead of red?

Leaf color depends heavily on light intensity. Under stronger light the arrowhead leaves develop red and bronze tones, while in lower light they stay green. CO2 and nutrients also help bring out color.

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