Nymphaea Micrantha - African tropical water lily (tricolor lotus) - Aquaflora

NYMPHAEA MICRANTHA It is a tropical lily of Western Africa, widespread by Senegal to Cameroon, also known as "tricolor lotus" for the extraordinary chromatic variety of its leaves. This is a particularly interesting species in aquarium and small tropical ponds thanks to its unique capacity to reproduce directly from the leaves.

Aesthetic and botanical features

This water lily has a double leaf morphology:

• Submerged leaves: Very decorative, with varying colors from light green to red-brown, often spotted
• Floating leaves: more round and uniform, green color

The leaves generally measure between 8 and 12 cm, incurred by long petioli that allow the plant to adapt to different depths.

The flowers are among the most spectacular elements: large up to 10 cm, with shades ranging from Blue to purple with white shades, and they appear mainly between late summer and autumn (September-October), under intense light and high temperatures.

Use in aquarium, pond and paludarium

Aquarium:
It is one of the few water lilies really suitable for tropical aquarium. It is used as a plant from center or background, creating a strong visual impact thanks to the colored leaves. It can develop floating leaves if left to grow freely.

Tropical lake:
Suitable for small heated ponds or tanks, as long as the temperatures do not come down under 18 ° C.

Paludario:
Usable exclusively in submerged areas. It does not tolerate prolonged conditions emerged.

It is not a rustic species: does not survive the cold, then it should be protected or maintained in areas controlled during the winter.

Positioning and installation

The tuber (rhizome) must be placed in a Substrate rich in nutrients, without completely interrupting it: the point of growth must remain slightly exposed.

In the aquarium:

• Recommended fertile fund
• Positioning in the central or rear area
• Avoid strong currents

In pond:

• Ideal depth 15 - 30 cm
• Calm water and well exposed to light

Growth and maintenance

Growth is relatively simple and also suitable for neophytes, as long as they are respected and temperature.

Key elements:

• Medium-high lighting to maintain intense colors
• Regular fertilization with iron and microelements
• Optional CO2 but useful for more vigorous growth

It is important to remove old or damaged leaves to promote the development of new structures.

Reproduction (distinctive feature)

The Nymphaea Micrantha is vivipara, a rare feature among aquatic plants: it produces Small seedlings (Bubilles) Directly on the leaves.

When these develop roots:

• They can be detached
• Replanted in the substrate

This makes propagation extremely simple and fast, ideal for those who are in the first experiences.

Parameters and adaptability

• Ideal temperature: 24 - 28 ° C
• Tolerate range: 18 - 32 ° C
• ph: From slightly acid to neutral alkaline
• Hardness: 2 - 14 DKH

It is a resistant and adaptable plant but sensitive to cold.