Victoria amazonica

This tropical water lily is winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-11. In tropical areas, plant roots are best anchored in organically rich loams at the bottom of the water body. Plants will remain perennial as long as water temperatures remain at least 75 degrees F. In the St. Louis climate, this water lily is typically grown in containers, often as an annual. Containers may be brought indoors before first frost for overwintering. It is best grown in 1-3à of quiet water in full sun. Splashing water, water currents and/or heavy winds must be avoided. In late spring, place containers at the bottom of the outdoor water body (water should have reached a consistent temperature of at least 70 degrees F) in 1-3à of water. Plants flower best when the water temperature is at least 80 degrees F during the growing season. It should be noted that outdoor pools that are shallow (e.g., 12-18î deep) tend to warm up earlier in spring. Plant seed in containers in late winter and emerse the containers in water that is 85-90 degrees F. If desired, containers may be brought indoors before fall frost for overwintering in a greenhouse. This species may be grown from seed by planting seed in a pot emersed in water of at least 80 degrees F in late winter.