Ottelia ovalifolia ssp. ovalifolia

Swamp Lily

Emergent, floating perennial herb.

Additional information

• FamilyHydrocharitaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Sizeleaf stalks to 60 cm long
• Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
• LeavesMid-green elliptic to egg-shaped leaves 2-16 cm long with 5-7 longitudinal veins, arising as a basal tuft on long reddish stalks to 60 cm. Juvenile leaves submerged and strap-like.
• Flower colourWhite with dark reddish-purple base
• Flowering timeNovember to March.
• FlowersLarge single showy flowers to 5 cm wide on long stalks, floating or emergent. Submerged flowers on short stalks do not open and are self-pollinating.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatYes
• Growing conditionsAquatic, in water bodies and slow-moving rivers. Full sun, semi-shade.
• Garden useHighly ornamental plant for pools and dams, similar in appearance to a water lily. Locally rare.
• Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
• Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites where it is rarely seen now.
• Aboriginal Use Food - most parts

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