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Nymphaea zenkeri
Nymphaea zenkeri
A striking aquatic lily, Nymphaea zenkeri is ideally suited for midground placement in the aquarium. With a medium growth rate, it introduces a vibrant and structural focal point, thanks to its distinctive and often richly colored leaves.
Class:Liliopsida
Order:Nymphaeales
Family:Nymphaeaceae
Genus:Nymphaea
Species:Nymphaea zenkeri
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Water Temperature
20 - 28 °C
pH Value
6 - 7.5
Water type
Freshwater
Light
Medium - High
CO2
Medium - High
KH
2 - 10 dKH
Species description
Geographic Origin and Habitat: No additional source-verified editorial notes are available about geographic origin and habitat for Nymphaea zenkeri. Consult this record's parameters and sources.
Taxonomy and Genetics: No additional source-verified editorial notes are available about taxonomy and genetics for Nymphaea zenkeri. Consult this record's parameters and sources.
Physical Structure: No additional source-verified editorial notes are available about physical structure for Nymphaea zenkeri. Consult this record's parameters and sources.
Colour and Texture: No additional source-verified editorial notes are available about colour and texture for Nymphaea zenkeri. Consult this record's parameters and sources.
Care, breeding and tankmates
Lighting & CO2: For optimal growth and to enhance its vibrant colorations, Nymphaea zenkeri requires medium intensity lighting. Adequate light not only promotes photosynthesis but also stimulates the production of red pigments, making the leaves more decorative. CO2 supplementation is highly recommended; this not only accelerates the plant's growth rate but also contributes to maintaining robust overall health and preventing algae formation.
Nutrition & Substrate: As a root-feeding plant with a significant rhizome, Nymphaea zenkeri greatly benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate. The application of specific root tab fertilizers, placed near the rhizome, is essential to support its vigorous growth and prevent deficiencies. Utilizing a nutritious substrate or regularly supplementing with liquid fertilizers containing macro and micronutrients will ensure a constant supply of vital elements for its health and coloration.
Water Chemistry: Nymphaea zenkeri thrives within a water temperature range of 20 to 28 °C, mimicking its natural tropical conditions. It maintains good health in a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, between 6.0 and 7.5, and tolerates carbonate hardness (KH) from 2 to 12. Maintaining these parameters stably is crucial to prevent stress and leaf melt, ensuring a comfortable aquatic environment for the plant.
Space Management & Placement: Ideally placed in the midground, Nymphaea zenkeri requires sufficient space to spread its distinctive leaves and root system. It is important to consider that its leaves can grow large and potentially shade plants below, so strategic placement is advisable. Careful space planning will prevent the plant from becoming overly dominant while still allowing other species to benefit from light and water circulation.
Pruning: Regular pruning is fundamental for managing the growth of Nymphaea zenkeri and maintaining its desired form within the aquarium. This includes the removal of older or damaged leaves, which tend to yellow or degrade, to encourage new vegetation. It is equally important to trim any floating leaves that emerge to the surface, unless this effect is specifically desired, to concentrate the plant's energy on producing submerged leaves and maintain lighting for underlying plants.
Risks & Diseases: Although a robust plant, Nymphaea zenkeri can be susceptible to nutritional deficiencies, manifesting as chlorosis or stunted growth, particularly if iron is lacking. Algae can proliferate on its leaves if the nutrient and light balance is not optimal. Another risk is "melting" of leaves, especially common after transplanting or under environmental stress, which requires patience and stability for recovery.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
This species originates from: West Africa.
Origin
Africa and Madagascar
Plant profile
- Placement
- No verified data available
- Botanical form
- No verified data available
- Growth
- No verified data available
- Substrate
- No verified data available
- Column fertilization
- No verified data available
- Root fertilization
- No verified data available
- Trimming
- No verified data available
- Propagation
- No verified data available
- Nutrients
- No verified data available
- Sensitivity
- No verified data available
- Layout role
- No verified data available
Image gallery
Licensed images linked to the species or, when marked, to the closest representative taxon.
Related species
Recommendations grouped by close relatives, companion choices, and similar care.
