Aquatic Plants
Water Lilies
The most popular water gardening plant that provides function and beauty. The multitude of leaves that spread across the surface of the water and flower throughout the season make this plant the crown jewel. The lily pads also provide shade for the fish and deprive algae of sunlight needed for growth.
Tropical Lilies
They produce fragrant and vibrant colorful blooms - brilliant whites, yellows, pinks, reds, and lilacs. Their leaves also come in an abundance of sizes, shapes, and colors. Only hardy in zones 10 and 11 but can be planted in colder zones when the water temperature is consistently above 70. Tropical lilies come in two categories: day and night bloomers.
Hardy Lilies
They also come in a wide array of colors, shapes, and sizes and are reliably perennial from zone 3 to zone 11. Hardy lilies usually open in the early morning and close by mid to late afternoon; typically bloom from May through September.
Lotus
The lotus is noted for its magnificent flowers, and are a beautiful addition to any water garden. They have circular leaves that are held high above the water with flowers that rise above the leaves with fragrant, beautiful blooms. This plant should be kept in a pot as it is highly aggressive.
Hardy Marginal
Marginal plants are typically found along the perimeter of ponds and streams to soften the edges and create a smooth transition from the water to the planting area surrounding. Certain marginals play a large role in consuming nutrients in the system, especially if planted in streams and bogs.
Floating Plants
Floating plants are tropical in most climates and treated as annuals. They are a necessary aquatic plant to help shade the pond and combat green water caused by free-floating algae. General rule of thumb is to cover 60% to 75% of the water surface with aquatic plants.
Hardy Submerged
Submerged plants are often overlooked because they are under water and don't grab the onlooker's attention. These plants are vital in creating a well-balanced water garden as oxygenators and consuming nutrients.
Recommended Aquatic Plant Combinations
Aquatic Plants up to 6x8
up to 11x11
up to 14x16
up to 16x21
up to 26x26
Lily 1
2
3
5
7
Marginals 5
9
10
13
20
Floaters 3
6
8
12
15
Submerged 3-4
5-7
10-15
15-25
20-35
Lotus 1
1
Gallery of Aquatic Plants[Coming Soon]