Fragrant Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata)

Family: Nymphaeaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Nymphaea odorata is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Flower buds - cooked as a vegetable or pickled. Young flowers - raw. Leaves - raw or cooked. Used in soups and stews. Root. Boiled or roasted. Ripe seed - cooked or ground into a meal. — Flower buds - cooked as a vegetable or pickled.; Young flowers - raw.; Leaves - raw or cooked.; Used in soups and stews.

Habitat & North American Range

Acidic or alkaline ponds, lakes, sluggish streams and rivers, pools in marshes, ditches, canals, or sloughs from sea level to 1700 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)