Nymphaea 'Arc-en-Ciel'

Nymphaea 'Arc-en-Ciel' was bred by Marliac in France and remains one of the most visually distinctive water lily cultivars in existence. Its chief attraction is not its modest white flowers but its remarkable floating pads, which are streaked and splashed with irregular zones of cream, yellow, soft pink, and green on a mid-green base — no two leaves are marked identically, and the overall effect at the water surface is extraordinarily colourful and ornamental.

The variegation is most pronounced and vivid under strong sunlight and in warm weather. In cool or shaded conditions the patterning can fade towards plain green. The plant itself is of medium vigour, suitable for medium ponds, and is reliably cold-hardy through European winters.

Garden writers have long considered 'Arc-en-Ciel' one of the most collectible and show-worthy hardy cultivars, and it is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a water lily valued as much for its foliage as its flowers.

Light: Full sun required for best variegation — colour fades significantly in shade. CO2: Not required. Fertilisation: Aquatic fertiliser tabs each spring at planting; repeat mid-season. Placement: Medium ponds at 40–80 cm depth; containerise to control spread. Propagation: Rhizome division in spring; maintain vigour by dividing every 3–4 years.