Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tiger Lotus
BeginnerNymphaea lotus
A water lily relative with beautiful round leaves featuring red-brown spots. Creates accent in tank midground.
About
Nymphaea lotus — known in the hobby as tiger lotus or Egyptian water lily — is a bulbous aquatic plant in the family Nymphaeaceae, native to East Africa (including Egypt) and distributed across Southeast Asia. Two primary forms are cultivated: the red tiger lotus with distinctive red-spotted foliage, and the green-leaved variety. Plants grow from a bulb, initially producing small submerged leaves that progressively enlarge. To preserve the attractive underwater leaf phase, emerging floating leaves should be promptly removed before they divert the plant's energy to surface growth. Submerged leaves in vivid red to bronze tones create a striking focal point in mid to background positions. CO2 supplementation is not required, but vigorous root uptake means that root-tab fertilization delivers substantial benefits. Due to its potential size, it is best suited to larger aquaria where its dramatic presence can be fully appreciated.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Tiger Lotus
The Tiger Lotus grows to 15-40cm.
Basic Info
Origin
East Africa (including Egypt) and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
Bulb plant
Size
15-40cm
Temperature
22〜30℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Root tabs
Growing Tips
Lighting
Moderate lighting is enough. To enjoy the red-to-brown submersed leaves, place it in a prominent mid- to background spot that light reaches.
CO2 & Fertilizer
It can be grown without CO2, but since the roots absorb nutrients vigorously, substrate fertilizer is especially effective.
Substrate & Attachment
Grown from a bulb; small leaves appear first and gradually enlarge. Plant the bulb in the substrate without burying it too deeply.
Trimming & Propagation
Fast-growing and needs regular trimming. Cut floating leaves as soon as they start to appear to keep enjoying the submersed leaves.
Cautions
It grows large, so it suits a roomy tank. Left alone, floating leaves cover the surface and shade the plants below.
Tiger Lotus FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Tiger Lotus?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Tiger Lotus get?
The mature size of Tiger Lotus is 15-40cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Tiger Lotus?
Tiger Lotus: watering & fertilizer — Root tabs. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Tiger Lotus?
The price of Tiger Lotus varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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