Water Poppy Hydrocleys nymphoides

Water Poppy is an emergent aquatic perennial, which is a plant that is rooted in the lake or pond bottom, but who's leaves and stems extend out of the water.  It will survive in water up to 12-15 in. deep, but prefers shallow conditions (6 in.) where it will float on the surface.  They can reach up to 1' in height, however, their size is more of a horizontal spread.  Each plant can spread can cover an area of 5' in diameter.  As it spread, it will produce plantlets that form their own roots.   Propagation can be done by dividing these plantlets.

Its flowers are quite showy and bloom for an extended period of time.  However, each bloom will only last one day.  Blooming will take place in water that has reached 70 degrees Fahrenheit.  

Spreading from its runners on the water surface, it will anchor its roots and produce new plants at their leaves.  Its quick spread can provide surface cover to a water garden or pond location. The spread of this plant can provide living organisms with shelter, shade and protection from their predators.  

In locations that are not tropical, it can be overwintered indoors in a shallow tub but keep moist and provide good light.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.  Its ability to rapidly spread has caused this plant to be considered invasive in a few areas of Florida.  Its web-like stem structure can choke streams which in turn cause flooding.  Small animals can get tangled in the root system and fish and other aquatic organisms can experience a reduced amount of available oxygen.