Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’: The Radiant Jewel of Water Gardens
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is a tropical water lily that stands out with its deep yellow, star-shaped blossoms and maroon-mottled olive-green leaves. This exquisite water lily, hybridized by Pring in 1956, is a perfect addition to any water garden, offering both aesthetic beauty and ecological benefits.
Botanical Background
Scientific Name: Nymphaea x ‘St. Louis Gold’
Common Name: St. Louis Gold
Family: Nymphaeaceae
Genus: Nymphaea
Hybridizer: Pring (1956)
Hardiness: Tropical
Flower Color: Deep yellow
Pad Color: Olive green with maroon flecking
Size: Medium
Historical Context
Water lilies, belonging to the genus Nymphaea, have captivated gardeners and botanists for centuries with their striking flowers and serene presence in water bodies. With around 70 known species, water lilies are native to various parts of the world and have been hybridized extensively to produce a wide range of colors and forms.
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is one such remarkable hybrid that has gained popularity for its vibrant color and adaptability. The hybrid was introduced by George H. Pring, a renowned horticulturist known for his contributions to aquatic plant hybridization.
Description
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ features medium-sized, deep yellow, star-like flowers that are both fragrant and visually striking. The flowers bloom from early summer to late fall, adding a bright, sunny presence to the water garden.
Flower Shape: Star-like
Flower Size: 5-6 inches across
Flowering Season: Summer to late fall
Leaves: Olive green with maroon mottling, 8-10 inches wide
Spread: 3-5 feet wide
Height: About 14 inches at maturity
Cultivation and Care of Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’:
Light Requirements: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Optimal blooming occurs with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Water Depth: Ideal planting depth ranges from 3 inches to 3 feet of water.
Container Size: Suitable for various sizes of water gardens, from small containers to large ponds.
Soil Requirements: Plant in heavy clay soil or a specialized aquatic planting mix. Ensure the planting site is stable to prevent tubers from floating.
Watering: Water lilies thrive in still water. Avoid placing them near fountains or strong currents.
Maintenance:
- Fertilization: Monthly feeding with aquatic plant fertilizer tabs promotes healthy growth and prolific blooming.
- Pruning: Remove yellowing or dead leaves regularly to maintain water quality and plant health. Cut back the plant in late fall to prepare for winter.
- Winter Care: In colder climates, tropical water lilies should be treated as annuals or brought indoors for overwintering.
Propagation of Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’:
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is typically propagated through division. This method ensures the new plants maintain the characteristics of the parent hybrid.
Steps for Propagation:
- Division: In spring, lift the tuber from the water garden.
- Separation: Cut the tuber into sections, ensuring each piece has at least one growing point.
- Replanting: Plant the divisions in individual containers or sections of the pond, securing them in the soil.
- Watering: Submerge the containers, maintaining consistent water levels to encourage new growth.
Pests and Diseases
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is generally hardy but can be affected by common water lily pests and diseases.
Pests:
- Aphids: Can be managed with water sprays or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf Miners: Remove affected leaves to prevent further damage.
- Waterlily Beetles: Handpick beetles or use appropriate insecticides.
Diseases:
- Fungal Infections: Maintain clean water and remove any decaying plant material.
- Bacterial Rot: Ensure proper water circulation to prevent rot.
Landscaping Uses
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is a versatile water lily that enhances various aquatic landscapes:
- Water Gardens: Adds vibrant color and a tropical feel.
- Naturalizing and Woodland Gardens: Provides habitat for pond life and helps prevent algae growth by shading the water.
- Container Planting: Ideal for small water features on patios or decks.
- Bog Gardens: Suitable for very wet locations with standing water.
Summary
Nymphaea ‘St. Louis Gold’ is a radiant addition to any water garden, with its deep yellow, star-like flowers and maroon-mottled leaves. This tropical water lily not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of aquatic landscapes but also supports local wildlife and contributes to the ecological balance of water gardens. With proper care and maintenance, ‘St. Louis Gold’ can thrive and provide stunning blooms from summer through late fall, making it a cherished gem in any water garden.
