Blue Egyptian Lotus

Nymphaea micrantha is a compact West African water lily that stays small enough for aquarium use, unlike most of its pond-sized relatives. The submerged leaves are thin, translucent, and green with reddish markings near the centre, while floating leaves are rounder and more leathery. Given the right conditions it produces small blue or white flowers at the water surface.

This plant grows from a rhizome and sends out runners to form new plantlets. A nutrient-rich substrate helps it develop strong roots and larger leaves. CO₂ is optional; without it the growth is slower but the plant remains healthy. Moderate light keeps the leaf colour good, while low light produces smaller, paler leaves that reach toward the surface.

It is less common in the trade than Nymphaea stellata (dwarf tiger lotus) and is more often found in specialist collections. Like other lilies, it may produce floating leaves that shade plants below if the surface is still. Trimming floating leaves encourages more submerged growth. Root tabs placed near the rhizome provide steady nutrition without disturbing the water column.