Victoria cruziana
Common Name: Giant Water Lily
Family Name: Nymphaeaceae
Native to: South America
Famous for its enormous leaves, which allow it to absorb as much sunlight as possible, the giant water lily’s individual leaves can grow 4-6 feet in diameter. Supported by large spongy veins, the leaves have upturned edges and the leaf underside (and stem) are covered in sharp spines, as a possible defense against herbivores such as fish and manatees.
FAQs
What is the giant water lily and where does it come from?
There are two closely related species of giant water lily, both from South America. The well-known Amazon water lily, Victoria amazonica, has a vast range in South America, from Bolivia in the south to Guyana in the north. Its lesser known relative is the Santa Cruz water lily, Victoria cruziana, found in wetlands further south in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. There is also a hybrid between these two species that is grown in cultivation. Ours are likely the Santa Cruz water lily.
Victoria Amazonicas has been a popular attraction at the Conservatory for decades.
How big does the giant water lily grow?
This plant is known for its massive leaves, which allow it to absorb as much sunlight as possible. As it matures, the individual leaves can grow 4-6 feet in diameter; currently ours are approaching 4 feet in diameter.
What makes the giant water lily unique?
This plant is famous for its enormous leaves, which are structurally supported by large spongy veins. The leaves have upturned edges and the leaf underside (and stem) are covered in sharp spines, a possible defense against herbivores such as fish and manatees. These giant water lilies grow best in shallow, quiet waters such as the backwaters of large river systems.
The large flowers open for a brief 2-3 days. On Day 1 the white flower opens in the evening and emits a sweet pineapple scent. It also begins to produce its own heat, inviting scarab beetles to spend time at the flower. At this stage the flower is female. On the morning of Day 2, the flower closes slightly, trapping the beetles while it changes into a male flower and the petals turn pink. At this stage, the male flower begins to produce pollen. As Day 2 turns to evening, the flower reopens and the beetles, newly covered in pollen, fly off to pollinate a new flower. Once a plant matures and begins to flower, it typically will produce additional flowers until the end of the season.
Why is it called the Victoria water lily?
The name Victoria was given in 1837 to honor Queen Victoria of England, who ascend the throne that year. The quickly developing Victorian era and its interest in exotic plants led to the giant water lily entering cultivation. In 1849 a private grower succeeded in the first giant water lily bloom in England and presented the flower to Queen Victoria.
Why is it called the Victoria water lily?
The name Victoria was given in 1837 to honor Queen Victoria of England, who ascend the throne that year. The quickly developing Victorian era and its interest in exotic plants led to the giant water lily entering cultivation. In 1849 a private grower succeeded in the first giant water lily bloom in England and presented the flower to Queen Victoria.
How long has the giant water lily been at the Conservatory?
Giant water lilies are short-lived and at our northern latitudes are grown as an annual. Every spring new seeds and seedlings are sourced from other botanic gardens or horticulture specialists and raised in nursery ponds behind the scenes. Once the plants are large enough, they are transferred to the Aquatic Plants Gallery where they spend the summer. Historical photos, likely over 100 years old, show giant water lilies growing at the Conservatory of Flowers. Currently we have 3 mature plants in the Aquatic Plants ponds.
Tell me about the giant water lily sculpture in the Aquatic Plants Gallery.
This botanically inspired sculpture uses glass and bronze to showcase the intricate details of the giant water lily. The veins and spines on the leaf underside are clearly visible, as are two flowers- one white and one pink. Each petal for the flowers was individually made, then torch-fused to form the complete flower. This sculpture was in place for the Conservatory’s grand re-opening in 2003.
