Fragrant Water-lily
Nymphaea odorata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
0"–12" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fragrant water-lily is an aquatic perennial that produces beautiful white flowers floating on the water surface from summer through early fall. This plant requires standing water like ponds or water gardens and spreads via underwater rhizomes to form colonies of lily pads.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fragrant Water-lily takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires permanent water feature
- Can spread aggressively in ponds
- Not suitable for typical residential landscaping
Wildlife value
The fragrant blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination. Seeds and rhizomes provide food for waterfowl and other aquatic wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Fragrant Water-lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.