Nymphaea 'Tropic Sunset'

Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’: Basking in the Splendor of a Tropical Water Lily

Background and Family: Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ as its name suggests, is a tropical water lily known for its striking flowers reminiscent of a sunset. It belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family, a group of aquatic plants renowned for their captivating blooms and graceful presence.

Origin and Discovery: Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ was first produced in 2009 by Florida Aquatic Nurseries, a renowned breeding program specializing in aquatic plants. This captivating hybrid showcases the beauty and charm of tropical water lilies.

Characteristics and Description:

The flowers of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ are a sight to behold. Starting as creamy-yellow, they transition to delicate shades of peach and pink towards the edges, evoking the mesmerizing colors of a breathtaking sunset sky. The flowers are star-shaped, adding an extra touch of elegance. The leaves of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ display a mottled pattern of green and purple, enhancing their visual appeal.

Notably, the leaves of this water lily possess viviparous characteristics, meaning they can reproduce small plants from the center of their leaves. This fascinating feature adds an intriguing dimension to its growth and propagation. The foliage can spread up to 8 feet (2.5 meters), providing ample shade for ponds and water gardens. Despite its tropical nature, Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ exhibits good cold tolerance.

Flowers and Fragrance: The flowers of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ captivate the senses with their radiant hues and delicate form. While the plant is not specifically renowned for its fragrance, it may emit a subtle and pleasant scent, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the garden.

Flowering Season: Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ graces the garden with its vibrant blooms during the summer and autumn months, from June to November. This extended flowering season ensures a prolonged display of its captivating colors and adds a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces.

Cultivation of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset:

Sunlight: To maximize the blooming potential of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset,’ it thrives in full sun. While it can tolerate partial shade, providing it with ample sunlight ensures abundant and vibrant flowers.

Watering: Regular watering is essential for the optimal growth and well-being of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset,’, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. Maintain a water level of at least 6 inches deep to sustain its aquatic habitat and promote healthy growth.

Soil: Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ prefers well-drained loamy soil, allowing excess water to flow away while retaining adequate moisture. While it can tolerate poorer soil conditions, providing it with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil enhances its overall performance.

Pests and Diseases: Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ is generally resilient against pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally face challenges from common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Should any infestations or diseases occur, promptly treat them with suitable insecticidal soap or fungicide to preserve the plant’s health and beauty.

Propagation:

Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ can be propagated through two primary methods: seeds and division.

  • Seed propagation: Sow the seeds indoors approximately 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Note that seed germination can be a slow process, requiring patience. Once the seedlings have emerged, transplant them to their desired location.
  • Division: The most common method of propagation for Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ is division. In either spring or fall, carefully dig up the plant and separate it into two or three sections, ensuring each section possesses at least one healthy root system. Replant the divisions in their new locations, providing them with adequate water to support their establishment.

Additional Tips:

To fully enjoy the captivating allure of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset,’ consider the following tips:

  • Deadheading is not necessary for Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset.’ However, removing spent flowers prevents the plant from expending unnecessary energy and encourages continuous blooming.
  • While Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ does not demand excessive fertilization, a light application of balanced fertilizer every few months can promote new growth and enhance its flowering performance.

Delight in the resplendent beauty of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset,’ a tropical water lily that graces the water garden with its captivating flowers. Embrace its remarkable colors, elegant foliage, and fascinating viviparous nature as it brings a touch of tropical paradise to your aquatic oasis.

Nymphaea 'Tropic Sunset'
Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’ at Kew Garden, London, UK
Nymphaea 'Tropic Sunset'
Pink flowers of Nymphaea ‘Tropic Sunset’

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