One of our most common flowers in central Florida is the water lily. There are several different types and many of those types have different colored flowers, but one of the prettiest ones is the American white water lily (Nymphaea odorata). It can be found in most of North America and parts of Central America, so it’s not surprising that it also has several other common names including the fragrant water lily, fragrant white water lily, sweet scented water lily, sweet scented white water lily, and beaver root. In case you can’t guess, it’s well known for it strong, sweet fragrance. Between the fragrance, the beauty of the flowers, and the fact that it’s very hardy and easy to grow, it’s very popular as an ornamental plant for ponds and water gardens.

Like most water lilies, the American white water lily grows in fresh water ponds, lakes, slow flowing streams, retention areas, and even roadside ditches. These particular flowers were growing in a pond in the Gothe State Forest, but they are found all over Florida. All that is required for their growth is between three inches to about six feet of slow flowing or still water, and direct sunlight. The leaves and flowers are attached to the bottom by long stems, or petioles, that hold and transport oxygen to the roots. The flowers usually last about four days. The first day is the only day when the female stigma is receptive to pollen. During the last three days, the male parts, the stamens, begin producing pollen, which pollinators can then carry to other flowers. By following this schedule, these the flowers avoid fertilizing themselves. By the fourth day, the flowers are becoming seeds, which will eventually sink to the bottom to germinate.

American white water lilies have many different uses including providing shade for ponds to help prevent algal growth, aerating ponds, and protection for fish and other water organisms. The seeds and leaves can be eaten by ducks and other water fowl and the roots are eaten by muskrats and beavers. People can also use the leaves and young flowers in salads and the seeds can be ground into flour. Herbalists have also used the powdered roots orally to treat chronic diarrhea and as a poultice for injuries and burns. A gargle can also be made to help treat sore throats. All in all, the American white water lily is a pretty amazing plant.