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:
- Common fragrant water lily problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Fragrant White Water Lily watering schedule
- Fragrant White Water Lily light requirements
- Best soil mix for fragrant white water lily
- Fragrant White Water Lily temperature & humidity
- Full fragrant white water lily care guide
Looking for fragrant white water lily in general rather than its problems? Read the full fragrant white water lily care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
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.