Nymphaea alba

2016 Kwiat grzybieni białych 2

Nymphaea alba, commonly known as the European white water lily, white water rose or white nenuphar, is an aquatic flowering plant of the family Nymphaeaceae. It is native to Europe and is found from the British Isles east to Caucasus and Iran. This species thrives in water bodies such as slow-moving streams and ponds, where it prefers to grow in water that is 30 to 150 cm deep. It is notable for its large, white flowers and broad, round, floating leaves which are deeply notched at the base.

Description

Nymphaea alba bears large, fragrant, white flowers that are 6 to 11 cm in diameter with a golden-yellow center. These flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon and are pollinated by insects, particularly beetles. The leaves are round, green on top and purple underneath, measuring 20 to 40 cm in diameter. The plant's underwater stalk is thick and fleshy.

Habitat and Distribution

This water lily prefers still or slow-flowing freshwater habitats such as lakes, ponds, and slow streams. It is adapted to a wide range of climates and is found across Europe and parts of Asia. The plant plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, providing habitat and breeding grounds for various aquatic organisms.

Cultivation and Uses

Nymphaea alba has been cultivated for its ornamental value in water gardens and ponds. It requires full sunlight and a still water environment to thrive. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, although these uses are not supported by modern scientific evidence.

Conservation

While not currently listed as endangered, Nymphaea alba faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting natural water bodies and maintaining the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems.

Gallery

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See Also

• Nymphaeaceae – The water lily family
• Aquatic plant – Plants that have adapted to living in aquatic environments
• Pollination – The process by which plants reproduce