Aquatic plants: learn about 5 species and their essential care

Aquatic plants have gained space in landscaping projects due to their ability to combine aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. With lush leaves, delicate flowers, and a symbiotic relationship with the projects, these species transform bodies of water, artificial lakes, and decorative fountains into true natural refuges.

In addition to their visual appeal, they contribute to the quality of water and the balance of the ecosystem. Below, learn about different types of aquatic plants and how to use them in residential or commercial landscaping.

Water lily

An icon of Brazilian flora, the water lily is one of the most emblematic aquatic plants of the Amazon. Its giant circular leaves float on the water and can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. Due to its impressiveness, it is ideal for larger lakes and areas with significant sun exposure.

Essential Care

The water lily needs full sun and calm, deep, and warm waters. It is best grown in lakes that are at least 1 meter deep and have good sun exposure. The soil should be clayey, rich in organic matter, and always submerged. As it is a perennial plant, it's necessary to regularly prune aged leaves to maintain the plant's vitality and avoid the accumulation of debris at the bottom of the lake.

Another important point is temperature control: this species does not tolerate intense cold. In regions with harsh winters, it is common to grow it in heated greenhouses. It is worth noting that flowering mainly occurs in the summer and lasts only two days, being a spectacle in itself.

Water lily

Also known as water lotus or Nymphaea, the water lily is a floating plant of great ornamental value, famous for its rose-like flowers that bloom at dawn. Available in several colors — such as pink, white, blue, and yellow — this species enchants with its elegance and ease of adaptation.

Essential Care

Water lilies prefer full sun, although some varieties tolerate partial shade. They should be planted in submerged pots with nutrient-rich soil and covered with a layer of gravel, which helps keep the substrate in place. The ideal depth varies from 30 cm to 60 cm, depending on the species.

Maintenance includes removing dried leaves and wilted flowers to prevent water decay. It is also important to control algae proliferation, which competes with the plant for nutrients. During winter, in colder regions, growth may slow down or temporarily stop, which is normal.

Water hyacinth

Water hyacinth is a floating plant well known in the rivers and lakes of Brazil. With rounded leaves and suspended roots that extend into the water, it is effective in filtering impurities and is widely used in phytoremediation projects. Its lilac flowers appear in clusters and have high decorative value.

Essential Care

Water hyacinth thrives in calm waters with good light and mild to warm temperatures. Being a fast-growing plant, it is essential to control its expansion so it does not suffocate other species in the same aquatic project. It is recommended to periodically remove some of the plants and keep the water surface partially unobstructed.

Although it does not require substrate, water hyacinth needs nutrients dissolved in the water to stay healthy; thus, it is important to carry out partial water changes in smaller containers. In larger lakes, aquatic fauna generally provides the necessary nutrients.

Eloidea

Eloidea is a submerged plant that acts as a natural oxygenator for water, being widely used in aquariums, fountains, and small ornamental lakes. With thin and delicate leaves, it grows in the form of stems that spread through the water, creating a light and harmonious look.

Essential Care

This species prefers locations with medium to high light, but can adapt to partial shade. Since it grows submerged, Eloidea does not require soil: just anchor it at the bottom with small stones or leave it free in the water. It absorbs nutrients directly from the water, so it is essential to ensure a clean and well-balanced project.

Eloidea grows rapidly and can occupy large volumes of water; therefore, it requires regular pruning. Additionally, it helps control algae proliferation, as it consumes the same nutrients. It is an excellent ally in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Papyrus

With African origins, papyrus is a marsh plant, meaning it grows on the edges and shallow areas of flooded projects. Its tall, erect stems, topped with tufts of fine leaves, bring lightness and verticality to aquatic landscaping. Widely used in tropical-inspired gardens, papyrus is also known as papyrus — yes, the one used for making paper in Ancient Egypt.

Essential Care

Papyrus adapts well to locations with full sun or partial shade and prefers substrates that are constantly moist or saturated. It can be grown directly on the shores of lakes, in pots without holes, or in aquatic planters. It needs constant irrigation if it is out of the water.

As it grows rapidly, it is important to prune the dry stems and control its height. In very open areas with strong winds, some type of support or natural barrier is recommended to prevent the plant from tipping over. Although it is resilient, papyrus does not tolerate frost.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text has been edited by Yeska Coelho.