Nymphaea ‘Marliacea Carnea’ is a stunning hardy water lily cultivar known for its delicate white petals tinged with soft pink and its golden-yellow center. This elegant aquatic plant is cherished for its romantic coloration, making it a favorite in garden ponds and water features.

Origins & History

This variety was developed by Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac, a renowned 19th-century French horticulturist. Marliac was famous for hybridizing hardy water lilies, introducing a range of colors beyond the traditional white. ‘Marliacea Carnea’ was one of his successful creations, blending the resilience of European Nymphaea alba with the vibrant hues of tropical lilies. As a water lily, ‘Marliacea Carnea’ is often associated with purity, enlightenment, and transformation. The soft pink hues give it an air of gentleness and serenity, making it a breathtaking centerpiece for any water garden.

Appearance

• Flowers: Blooms are 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) wide, opening in the morning and closing by late afternoon. The petals start as a creamy white and gradually show a soft pink blush toward the edges, deepening slightly with age.

• Leaves: Large, rounded, and green with a bronze tint when young. They provide ample shade for aquatic life.

• Growth Habit: A prolific bloomer from late spring to early autumn, producing numerous flowers throughout the season.

Growing Conditions

• Water Depth: Thrives in 12–36 inches (30–90 cm) of water, making it ideal for both shallow and deep ponds.

• Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6+ hours daily) to encourage strong blooming.

• Soil: Prefers loamy or clay-based aquatic soil placed in a planting basket or directly in pond substrate.

• Winter Hardiness: Fully hardy in USDA zones 4–11. It can survive freezing winters if the rhizome remains below ice formation.

Care & Maintenance

• Fertilization: Apply slow-release aquatic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

• Pruning: Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to promote continuous blooms and prevent decay.

• Propagation: Best propagated by dividing rhizomes in early spring before active growth begins.

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

• Attracts pollinators, such as bees and beetles, which help fertilize the flowers.

• Provides shade and shelter for fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures.

• Helps oxygenate water and reduce algae growth by limiting sunlight penetration.