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Micrantha (Blue Lotus of West Africa) Tropical Water Lily
The Micrantha Water Lily, often called the Blue Lotus of West Africa, is a smaller tropical water lily that is perfect for beginners. With brilliant blue blossoms reminiscent of the famous Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lotus of the Nile), Micrantha brings history, beauty, and fragrance to ponds of all sizes. This variety is known for its heavy blooming habit and easy care, making it an excellent choice for new water gardeners or anyone seeking a dependable, sun-loving pond plant.
Compact but floriferous, the Micrantha Water Lily is ideal for container gardens, whiskey barrel liners, small ponds, or larger water gardens in full sun. Its flowers open readily when exposed to sunlight, and it may become viviparous late in the season, producing new plantlets on its leaves. For centuries, the terms lotus and water lily were used interchangeably across Africa and Asia, and Micrantha carries that legacy of cultural significance while thriving as a modern pond plant.
🌱 Planting & Care Instructions
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Micrantha Water Lily Size: Small to medium
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Micrantha Water Lily Suggested Pot Size: 9-inch or larger wide fabric pond pot
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Micrantha Water Lily Depth: Best blooming at 6–16 inches below water surface; can tolerate up to 24–30 inches but with fewer blooms
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Micrantha Water Lily Soil: Heavy loam only (never use bagged compost mixes; they rot underwater)
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Micrantha Water Lily Fertilizing: 3–4 Waterlily World Fertilizer Tablets every 2–3 weeks, placed ~3 inches deep around the roots (safe for fish & wildlife)
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Micrantha Water Lily Fragrance: Light, pleasant scent
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Winter Hardiness: Zones 9–12 (annual in cooler zones)
💡 PondMegastore Tip: Micrantha is one of the easiest tropical water lilies to bloom—just keep it in full all-day sun and fertilize on schedule for constant flowers.
✅ Do’s & ❌ Don’ts for Micrantha Water Lily
Do’s
✅ Plant in a 7-inch or larger shallow fabric pond pot
✅ Use heavy loam soil for stability and nutrients
✅ Fertilize consistently every 2–3 weeks with 3–4 tablets
✅ Place the pot so the crown is 6–16 inches deep for the best flowering
✅ Grow in full sun—direct sunlight is essential
Don’ts
❌ Don’t use bagged potting soil or composted mixes—they rot in water
❌ Don’t bury the growing point—it must remain exposed to sunlight
❌ Don’t add stone or gravel on top of the soil—this often causes mortality
❌ Don’t expect blooms in shade or indoors—this water lily needs direct outdoor sun
📦 Seasonal Shipping Information for Tropical Water Lilies
Tropical water lilies are often ready a few weeks later than other pond plants in spring. They typically ship between May and August/September when conditions are warm enough for healthy growth.
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If your order includes a tropical water lily, even if you live in the South, the entire order will be held until the tropical is available.
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If you want to receive other pond plants sooner, please place two separate orders.
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For northern regions, tropical water lilies generally become available right around the time it’s safe to ship pond plants to your area.