Water Lilies

Water lilies are beautiful plants that float on the surface of ponds and lakes. Their large, round leaves sit on top of the water. Water lilies produce colorful flowers in white, pink, yellow, and purple. They are found on every continent except Antarctica.

Floating Gardens

Water lily leaves, called lily pads, float on the water's surface. Long stems connect them to roots in the mud below. The leaves are waxy on top so water rolls right off. Tiny holes on the top of the leaves let the plant breathe air.

Giant Water Lilies

The giant Amazon water lily has leaves over 8 feet across. These leaves are so strong they can hold the weight of a small child. The leaves have sharp spines underneath to protect them from fish. Giant water lily flowers bloom white the first night and turn pink the second night.

Fun Facts

• Giant Amazon water lily pads can grow over 8 feet across.
• Water lily flowers open during the day and close at night.
• The famous painter Claude Monet created over 250 paintings of water lilies.

Did You Know?

The giant Amazon water lily inspired the design of a famous building! The Crystal Palace in London was designed based on the strong rib pattern under the giant lily pads.