The Voice of Mother Blossom
Cultivating Wisdom, Beauty, and Joy Through Gardening

Aquatic Opulence

Victoria Waterlily (Giant Waterlily)

Victoria or giant waterlily is a genus of water-lilies, in the plant family Nymphaeaceae, with very large green leaves that lie flat on the water’s surface. Victoria boliviana has a leaf that is up to 3 metres (or just about 10’) in width, on a stalk up to 8 metres in length. Wikipedia

white flower on water

In 1961, Longwood was the first garden in America to successfully hybridize Victoria amazonica and Victoria cruziana, two species of giant water-platters. For five decades since, Longwood has shared Victoria ‘Longwood Hybrid’ seeds with more than 140 gardens around the world.

I was truly mesmerized on a summer trip to Longwood Gardens, where I got to see up close and personal the lily floating in a big tub of water. I stood in amazement for what must have been 20 minutes. I learned that every part of the plant has thorns except the platter part… that knowledge commands a new respect. Especially as I took a closer look!

Now those are some thorns!  Reportedly the stem is full of thorns, the underneath of the plant is laden with the prickly pests as shown in the next photo.

Now those are some thorns!  Reportedly the stem is full of thorns, the underneath of the plant is laden with the prickly pests as shown in the next photo.

I stand in awe and amazement when I am in the presence of this floating beauty. The platter once was rumored to support 498 pounds. I would not recommend trying this out…

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Aquatic Opulence: Victoria Amazonica’s Mirrored Splendor

In the heart of a tranquil pond, the Victoria Amazonica takes center stage, its majestic presence mirrored in the dark green depths. Gracefully afloat on the reflective surface, the plant’s expansive leaves unfurl like nature’s masterpieces. Surrounding this regal specimen, fellow Victoria Amazonica plants and delicate lilies create a vibrant aquatic tapestry. The dark green water, mirroring the surroundings at the perfect angle, not only cradles the botanical ensemble but also unveils a captivating reflection, doubling the visual allure. This enchanting water garden becomes a realm where nature’s beauty and symmetry intertwine, inviting viewers to lose themselves in the mesmerizing dance between reality and its mirrored counterpart. 

pond-photography

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The Voice of Mother Blossom: Cultivating Wisdom, Beauty, and Joy Through Gardening

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