Nymphaea daubenyana

Nymphaea daubenyana is a natural or early hybrid between N. caerulea and N. micrantha, combining the pale blue floral colour of the former with the viviparous leaf propagation trait of the latter. It is one of the most free-flowering small tropical water lilies available, producing an almost continuous succession of sky-blue to soft lavender blooms throughout the growing season. The floating leaves are attractively mottled in green and brown.

The most intriguing feature of this species is its viviparous reproduction: small plantlets emerge directly from the surface of floating leaves, each carrying a tiny set of leaves and eventually developing their own roots. These can be separated and grown on independently, making propagation effortless. The plant is well suited to heated ponds, tub water gardens, and large open-top aquariums.

Daubenyana requires warm temperatures (24°C minimum) to thrive and bloom reliably. It prefers a nutrient-rich growing medium and bright, unobstructed light for best flower production.

Light: High (80–150 PAR or full sun); flowering declines significantly under low light. CO2: Beneficial for faster vegetative growth; not essential for flowering. Fertilisation: Aquatic slow-release fertiliser tablets in substrate every 6–8 weeks; liquid feed during peak growth. Placement: Open-top aquarium or heated pond; give ample surface space for floating pad development. Propagation: Collect viviparous plantlets from leaf surfaces once they develop 2–3 leaves and roots.