Water Lily

Position: full sunDepth of water: 50-80cm (20-32in)Rate of growth: averageUltimate spread: 100cm (36in)Height above surface: 0-10cm (0-4in) Flowering period: June to SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyGorgeous, orange-centred, soft yellow flowers appear in early summer and mature to pinky-orange then coppery-red. This wonderful water lily is perfect for a medium pond, where it is best planted at a depth of 50-80cm (20-32in). The brown or purple-spotted foliage and ephemeral flowers provide interest from early summer until the first frosts. The shade cast by the foliage also helps to check the spread of algae. Garden care: Plant firmly in a hessian-lined aquatic planting basket filled with aquatic compost. Apply a 2.5cm (1in) top-dressing of pea shingle or gravel to prevent the top layer of the planting medium from clouding the water. The crown of the plant should protrude slightly above the surface of the planting basket. Raise the basket on bricks when the plant is young, gradually lowering them as the plant matures, so that the leaves float on the surface.Goes well with: Caltha palustris, Juncus effusus f. 'Spiralis', Iris laevigata 'Snowdrift', Equisetum scirpoides, Rodgersia aesculifolia, Primula denticulata 'Alba'...more Price: £18.95 Source: Crocus •