Orchid Lily

Barclaya longifolia produces elongated, wavy underwater leaves from a central growing point. It belongs to the water-lily family but does not make the floating leaves expected of many water lilies. Green and red forms are traded as the same species. A young plant may resemble a Cryptocoryne; an established specimen can become much larger and needs an open planting area.

Provide sufficient light and warm water. Keep water at 24 to 28 °C and pH 5.5 to 7.5. Nutrients in the water can support it, while substrate fertilisation can encourage a larger plant. Restricting the roots in a small pot can help limit its size, but this is a cultivation choice rather than a promise of permanent compactness. Allow enough room for the leaves to develop without shading neighbouring plants.

Leaves can die back during a resting phase and the rhizome may later resume growth. Preserve a sound growing point and observe it before discarding the plant. Its tender leaves can be damaged by snails, so inspect holes and other deterioration. Daughter plants may develop around the tuber, while seed propagation is also possible from a flowering specimen. Establish small offspring separately before moving them into their final position.