Wild Wednesday - Yellow waterlily
The British yellow waterlily, scientific name, Nuphar lutea, also known as the charmingly named 'Brandy Bottle', is in flower from June to September. This native aquatic plant produces distinctive oval, cup-shaped yellow blooms (around 2-5cm across) that sit just above the water's surface.
Found in ponds, lakes, canals and slow-moving rivers, it thrives in still or gently flowing water, often in partially shaded spots. Unlike the more familiar white waterlily, its flowers are less showy but just as important for wildlife.
If you get close enough, you might notice its unusual scent - often described as like the dregs of wine, which gives rise to its nickname 'Brandy Bottle'.
A haven for wildlife
Yellow waterlilies play a valuable role in freshwater ecosystems:
- their floating leaves provide shelter for frogs, newts and aquatic insects
- the flowers offer an early nectar source for pollinators
- beneath the surface, their stems create cover for fish and invertebrates
They're a great addition to a wildlife-friendly pond, helping to create a balanced habitat.
A note of caution - despite their beauty, all parts of plants in the lily family are toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so it's best to admire them without touching.
Growth and behaviour
- the roots grow horizontally, spreading vigorously beneath the water surface
- they form large clumps with multiple stems
- they anchor themselves with strong roots in the sediment
This makes them excellent for natural habitats, but something that will need managing in smaller garden ponds.
How to tell them apart
If you spot a waterlily without flowers, you can still identify it:
- the yellow water-lily leaf veins run straight to the edge
- the white waterlily leaf veins form a net-like pattern
Watch out for pests
The plant can be affected by the lily leaf beetle. Their larvae hatch in large numbers and can quickly strip the leaves, buds, flowers and stems
You don't have to travel far to spot these native plants, pay a visit to:
- the River Arun - look along slower-flowing stretches and backwaters, especially near quieter rural sections
- Arundel Wetland Centre (WWT) - a fantastic place to see wetland plants and wildlife up close
- Swanbourne Lake, Arundel - calm water and ideal conditions for aquatic plants
- Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve - while better known for birds, sheltered pools can host aquatic flora
- local ponds and gravel pits across the Arun district can also support populations
Did you know?
Yellow waterlilies have long been associated with symbolism of unity, creation and gracefulness, and have featured in folklore across Europe.