Nymphaea 'Perry's Fire Opal'

Nymphaea 'Perry's Fire Opal' was bred by Perry Slocum, one of the greatest American water lily hybridists, and represents the pinnacle of his work in developing large-flowered, richly coloured hardy cultivars. The flowers are extraordinarily impressive — large, multi-petalled, and richly coloured in vivid hot pink with orange-red flushing at the petal bases, surrounding a prominent mass of orange-yellow stamens. The overall effect is almost tropical in intensity while retaining full cold-hardiness.

This cultivar is vigorous and best suited to medium to large ponds where it can develop its full spread. It flowers prolifically throughout summer and the blooms hold up well in warm weather. The floating pads are large and rounded with a characteristic purplish-green mottling when young.

As a collector's cultivar, 'Perry's Fire Opal' is frequently exhibited and has won numerous awards at water lily shows. It is an outstanding choice for the enthusiast who wants maximum visual impact from a single water lily specimen.

Light: Full sun essential for full colour development and prolific blooming. CO2: Not required. Fertilisation: Rich aquatic growing medium; supplement with fertiliser tabs every 6 weeks during growing season. Placement: Medium to large ponds at 40–90 cm depth. Propagation: Divide rhizomes in spring every 3–4 years to maintain vigour and bloom quality.