Troubleshooting
Fragrant White Water Lily problems — and how to fix them
Fragrant White Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Water lily aphid (Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae)
Dense colonies on pads and flower buds in summer; knock pests off with a strong water jet so pond fish can eat them, or dip affected pads under the water for a few hours.
Invasive spread in natural waterways
N. odorata is considered an invasive aquatic weed in parts of the Pacific Northwest; never plant it in open waterways or allow rhizomes to enter natural water bodies. In garden ponds, grow in a contained basket.
Prevent fragrant white water lily problems before they start
Most fragrant white water lily issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Fragrant White Water Lily problems — FAQ
Why is my fragrant white water lily water lily aphid (rhopalosiphum nymphaeae)?
Dense colonies on pads and flower buds in summer; knock pests off with a strong water jet so pond fish can eat them, or dip affected pads under the water for a few hours.
Why is my fragrant white water lily invasive spread in natural waterways?
N. odorata is considered an invasive aquatic weed in parts of the Pacific Northwest; never plant it in open waterways or allow rhizomes to enter natural water bodies. In garden ponds, grow in a contained basket.