People have long appreciated the beauty and resilience of aquatic plants. The sacred lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, symbolizes eternal life in Buddhism. Preserved petals of waterlilies have been found in 3,000-year-old Egyptian tombs. When the heat is on, these plants of myth and legend bring their magic to the Conservatory courtyard pools. Waterlilies and lotus in brilliant yellow, pink, purple, and even blue float serenely next to waving grasses and reeds. Dominating the tropical pool is the Victoria amazonica, the world's largest waterlily, whose leaves can span seven feet across.
Approx. bloom time: Mid-July to mid-September
Actual bloom time may vary.
Generous support for the Waterlily Concert Series and Waterlilies & Lotus: An Aquatic Exhibition has been provided by Vivian and Edward Merrin.