Tiger Lotus [Nymphaea zenkeri]

🌿 Tiger Lotus (Nymphaea zenkeri)

The Tiger Lotus is a stunning aquatic plant prized for its broad, vibrant leaves and distinctive red and green marbling. Its bold appearance makes it an excellent centerpiece in freshwater aquariums, adding rich color, texture, and depth to aquascapes.

🔍 Key Features

• Striking Foliage: Displays large, wavy-edged leaves with vivid red and green variegation.

• Dual Growth Style: Produces both submerged and floating leaves depending on care and trimming.

• Fast Establishment: Once rooted, it sends up new leaves rapidly, creating a lush environment.

• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for and does not require CO₂ supplementation to thrive.

• Flexible Placement: Best suited for midground areas or as a strong focal point.

📐 Specifications

• Scientific Name: Nymphaea zenkeri

• Common Name: Tiger Lotus

• Care Level: Easy

• Lighting Requirement: Moderate to High

• CO₂ Requirement: Not required

• Growth Rate: Medium

• Placement: Midground

• Maximum Height: 6+ inches

• Water Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH Range: 6.5–7.5

🌱 Planting & Care Tips

• Bulb Planting: Place the bulb gently on top of the substrate; avoid full burial to prevent rotting.

• Lighting: Provide moderate to high lighting for optimal coloration and compact growth.

• Fertilization: Use root tabs or nutrient-rich substrate to encourage healthy development.

• Pruning: Trim floating leaves if you want to encourage a bushier, more compact form.

• Water Conditions: Keep stable temperatures and pH to ensure vibrant growth and longevity.

💡 Aquascaping Inspiration

The Tiger Lotus makes an impressive visual impact, contrasting beautifully against green plants and hardscape elements. Its bold, colorful leaves add drama and elegance, making it a favorite choice for aquascapes that aim to create strong focal points and natural depth.