Bolivian giant waterlily (Victoria boliviana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bolivian giant waterlily on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Nymphaeaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 1 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Bolivian giant waterlily
Victoria boliviana, also known as the Bolivian Giant Water Lily, is a majestic aquatic plant from the Nymphaeaceae family, renowned for its enormous leaves that can reach up to 3 meters in diameter, creating an impressive floating surface. Its large flowers, which change color from white to deep pink, are an ephemeral spectacle. It is an ideal plant for large ponds and water features in botanical gardens or properties with sufficient space, where its size and exotic beauty can be fully appreciated.
Native range
Bolivia, in the Grande River and Mamoré River basins
Care tips
It requires full, direct sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering is not applicable, as it is an aquatic plant; it needs to be submerged in calm, deep water, with a depth of at least 60 cm for the rhizome. The substrate should be rich in nutrients, preferably a clay or silty soil at the bottom of the pond. A common mistake to avoid is trying to cultivate it in small or shallow spaces, as its size and water requirements are very specific.
How to save a dying Bolivian giant waterlily
- Warning signs
- Stunted or rotting leaves, soft stems, no flowering, excessive algae.
- First aid
- Ensure constant temperature (25-30°C), intense direct sunlight, and proper substrate nutrition. Remove damaged leaves.
- What kills it
- Low temperatures (<20°C), insufficient light, incorrect depth, nutrient deficiency, poor substrate, or stagnant water.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if environmental and cultivation conditions are corrected quickly. It's demanding but recovers with proper care.