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White Water-lily (Nymphaea odorata)
Water-lily Family (Nymphaeaceae)

(Also known as Pond-lily or Fragrant Water-lily)

Habitat:

This aquatic plant grows in lakes, ponds, and quiet streams. Its flowers and leaves float on the surface of the water.

Leaves:

Basal, olive-green, with long, rubbery stems. The leaves are round, 6-12 inches across, with a notch that cuts into the center.

Flowers:

Large and fragrant with many white sepals and a large yellow center. They open in the morning and close later in the day.

Helpful Tips:

White Water-lily is native to Maine, and its range spreads from Newfoundland to Florida and west to Texas. For more information, see Flora of Maine. For information about invasive aquatic plants, see the Maine Center for Invasive Aquatic Plants website.

White Water-lily
A White Water-lily flower.
(Photo courtesy of Don Cameron)

Map of White Water-lily

Sightings of French Lilac in Bloom
2006
2007
2008
Date
Location
Date
Location
Date
Location

May 14

Portland

       

May 15

York, Kittery, Ogunquit

       

May 16

Buckfield

       

May 17

Kennebunk

       

 

Last Updated: July 18, 2006