The Water Lily, as its name implies, is a family of aquatic plants found all around the world. There are approximately 70 species in total, but only about 35 are native to the northern hemisphere. In general, water lilies are divided into two groups: Hardy and Tropical. Hardy water lilies bloom only in daylight and will close at night. Tropical water lilies can bloom and time of the day. They are also the only group of flowers in the world to produce a true blue colored bloom.
A similar but distinct group is the Lotus family. Despite similar appearances, the two are not closely related, although the name "water lily" is often used interchangeably to apply to both groups. The lotus (most commonly, the Sacred Lotus) is much more common in Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Middle East. However, the lesser known American Lotus is native to North America and the Caribbean.
Water lilies are considered by many to be an ornamental plant, quickly populating any body of water with little or no water flow. However, many have escaped from cultivation and it is now considered an invasive species in some areas.
Water lilies are not commonly used in flower arrangements, as they do not tolerate drying out well. However, if kept well hydrated they can last for several days. Most commonly, short stemmed water lilies can be set floating in a bowl for decoration. They are rather heat tolerant, but cold can kill them quickly. More commonly used in arrangements are silk water lilies.
Some of the most famous uses for water lilies have been French painter Claude Monet who is famous for his paintings of water lilies. Also, the water lily can be found on the national flags of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
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| Le Bassin aux nymphéas Claude MONET 1899 |
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