Pond-Lily
Nuphar variegata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, IA, ID and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Nuphar variegata is a native aquatic plant that produces heart-shaped floating leaves and small yellow cup-shaped flowers. This water lily requires consistently wet conditions or shallow standing water to thrive. It spreads by underwater rhizomes and can form colonies in pond margins or water gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pond-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 standing water or bog conditions
- Can appear messy as aquatic plant
- May spread aggressively in water features
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during summer blooming months. Seeds and foliage provide food for waterfowl and other aquatic wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pond-Lily need?
- Pond-Lily grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Pond-Lily bloom?
- Pond-Lily blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Pond-Lily native?
- Pond-Lily (Nuphar variegata) is native to CT, DE, IA, ID and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Pond-Lily attract?
- Pond-Lily draws bees and beetles.
- Is Pond-Lily HOA-friendly?
- Pond-Lily takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Pond-Lily? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz