Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’: A Tropical Waterlily Gem
Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ is a spectacular tropical waterlily, celebrated for its striking blooms and distinctive foliage. Developed by hybridizer J. Craig Presnell in 2003, this waterlily quickly gained popularity due to its unique coloration and robust growth habit. With its beautiful blend of pink and blue petals and variegated leaves, ‘Foxfire’ is a standout addition to any medium to large pond or water garden.
Botanical Background
Genus: Nymphaea
Family: Nymphaeaceae
Common Name: Tropical Waterlily
Scientific Name: Nymphaea x ‘Foxfire’
Hybridizer: J. Craig Presnell (2003)
The Nymphaea genus, part of the Nymphaeaceae family, comprises approximately 70 known species of waterlilies. These aquatic perennials are either tropical or hardy and are distinguished by their floating leaves and vibrant, fragrant flowers.
Description
Height: About 12 inches (30 cm)
Spread: Up to 10 feet (3 meters)
Flower Size: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm) in diameter
Bloom Time: Early summer to late fall
Flower Color: Lavender with pink overtones and a yellow center
Leaf Color: Glossy green with distinctive burgundy and deep green mottling
Pad Size: 19×17 inches (48×43 cm)
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9a-11b
Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ is renowned for its large, showy flowers, which feature a pink ring of narrow inner petals surrounded by wider medium blue outer petals. The vibrant blooms can sometimes remain partially open at night due to their size. The leaves are equally impressive, with a distinctive maroon and green mottling that adds visual interest to the plant.
Care Instructions for Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’:
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. For best blooming results, ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water Depth: 3 inches to 3 feet. Plant in a container submerged in the pond, ensuring the crown is about 6 inches below the water surface.
Soil Requirements: Use heavy clay soil or aquatic planting media. Avoid using garden soil, as it can cloud the water and introduce contaminants.
Water Quality: Prefers non-moving water. Avoid planting near fountains or strong currents.
Fertilizing: Fertilize monthly with aquatic plant fertilizer tablets for continuous growth and blooming.
Temperature: Tropical waterlilies thrive in warm water temperatures. Ensure the water temperature is consistently above 70°F (21°C).
Propagation
Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ can be propagated through division, typically done in the spring or early summer when the plant begins to show new growth.
Steps for Propagation by Division:
- Remove the Plant: Gently lift the plant from the water and remove it from its container.
- Divide the Rhizomes: Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing tip and a healthy root system.
- Replant: Place each division into a new container filled with heavy clay soil or aquatic planting media. Submerge the containers in the pond, ensuring the crown is about 6 inches below the water surface.
- Fertilize: Insert a fertilizer tablet into the soil of each new container to encourage growth.
Landscape Uses of Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’:
Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ is an excellent choice for a variety of aquatic landscapes:
- Water Gardens: Its large spread and striking blooms make it a focal point in any water garden.
- Naturalizing: The dense foliage and vibrant flowers provide a natural look, enhancing the beauty of ponds and lakes.
- Containers: Suitable for large containers or tubs, creating a stunning display on patios or decks.
Wildlife Value
The large leaves of Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ provide landing pads for bees and other pollinators, while the dense foliage offers shelter for aquatic life. The shading effect of the leaves also helps reduce algae growth, contributing to a healthier pond environment.
Conclusion
Nymphaea ‘Foxfire’ is a tropical waterlily that combines extraordinary beauty with robust growth. Its unique coloration, large size, and variegated foliage make it a prized addition to any medium to large pond or water garden. With proper care and maintenance, ‘Foxfire’ will provide a stunning display of color from early summer through late fall, making it a treasured gem for aquatic plant enthusiasts.
