Dwarf Lily

The Dwarf Aquarium Lily (Nymphaea stellata) is a captivating aquatic plant known for its vibrant, colorful leaves and fast growth. This plant adds a touch of elegance and natural beauty to any aquarium, making it a popular choice among aquarists. Easy to care for and adaptable, the Dwarf Aquarium Lily is suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

Planting and Placement

Substrate: Dwarf Aquarium Lilies have a bulb that should be partially buried in the substrate. Use a nutrient-rich substrate or supplement with root tabs to provide essential nutrients. Ensure that the top of the bulb is exposed to prevent rot.

Light Requirements: This plant thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. Aim for 2 to 4 watts per gallon or an equivalent LED light setup. Adequate lighting promotes healthy growth and vibrant coloration of the leaves.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Dwarf Aquarium Lily is between 72°F and 82°F.
• pH: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3 to 12 dGH) is ideal for this plant.

Maintenance

Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to manage the growth of the Dwarf Aquarium Lily. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. Trim back overgrown leaves to prevent the plant from overshadowing other tank inhabitants and to encourage new growth.

Fertilization: Dwarf Aquarium Lilies benefit from regular fertilization. Use root tabs to deliver nutrients directly to the bulb and roots. Liquid fertilizers can also be used to supplement water column nutrients, especially in tanks with other plants.

CO2 Requirements: While Dwarf Aquarium Lilies can grow without additional CO2, they will thrive and exhibit faster growth in tanks with CO2 supplementation. If you choose to inject CO2, monitor levels to avoid harming fish and other tank inhabitants.

Propagation

Dwarf Aquarium Lilies propagate through bulb division. Over time, the main bulb will produce smaller bulbs. Once these offsets have developed roots and a few leaves, they can be separated from the main plant and replanted. Be patient, as this process can take several months.