Victoria cruziana, also known as santa cruz waterlily, is an aquatic plant whose lily pads can grow up to 1.8 m in diameter. It is native to slow-moving waters in South America, but it is also cultivated in many botanical water gardens for its large, fragrant flowers. In its native environment, Victoria cruziana is pollinated by Cylocephata castanea, a species of beetle.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
Victoria cruziana (Santa Cruz water lily, water platter, yrupe, synonym Victoria argentina Burmeist.) is a tropical species of flowering plant, of the Nymphaeaceae family of water lilies native to South America, primarily Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina and Paraguay.
The plant is a popular water garden plant in botanical gardens where its very large leaves can reach their fullest, up to 2 m wide with a thick rim up to 20 cm high, although rims up to nine inches (23 centimeters) have been recorded. It can be grown in cooler waters than its sisters within the genus, the more familiar giant waterlily, Victoria amazonica and the recently discovered Victoria boliviana.
A 25 cm diameter flower blooms for two days, arising from the underwater bud, as a white flower that turns to a deep pink on the second and final day of its bloom. V. cruziana is a thermogenetic or heat-producing plant. The plant prefers to live in colder non moving water and requires warm temperatures in order for the flower to blossom, hence the plant must distribute a lot of energy to keep itself warmer than its natural environment (above 90 degrees Fahrenheit).Â
The floral stigma are attached to a cup that is protected by spines, and the floral cup begins heating up in the bud, then, as the flower opens, it releases a strong sweet scent to attract pollinating beetles, then continues to provide heat to the flower while the beatles are pollinating.
The diploid chromosome count of Victoria cruziana is 2n = 24.
Victoria cruziana was discovered in Bolivia on one of many expeditions through the country by Alcide d’Orbigny whose presence was sponsored by Andrés de Santa Cruz. The first collected specimens were returned to France where they were named in honor of Santa Cruz by Alcide’s brother, Charles Henry Dessalines d’Orbigny.
It was first described in 1840 by Alcide d’Orbigny in Annales des Sciences Naturelles; Botanique, Ser. 2, 13, p. 57. Synonyms for Victoria cruziana A.D.Orb. are: Victoria argentina Burmeist. noun nud., Victoria cruziana var. malmei F.Henkel et al., Victoria cruziana f. matogrossensis Malme, Victoria cruziana f. trickeri F.Henkel ex Malme, Victoria cruziana var. trickeri F.Henkel et al., Victoria regia var (A.D.Orb.) C.Lawson, Victoria trickeri (F.Henkel ex Malme) hort. ex Mutzek.
II. How to Grow and Care
Santa cruz waterlily are large aquatic plants that demand considerable attention and resources to thrive. They require a very warm, humid environment and large water bodies that can accommodate their size, often needing heated ponds. Special care points include meticulous water quality management and temperature control, ensuring that water temperatures are kept consistently above 75°F, as santa cruz waterlily is sensitive to cooler conditions. The substantial spatial and environmental requirements render the care for santa cruz waterlily as notably difficult.
Sunlight and Soil
Santa cruz waterlily performs best in full sun in organically rich loams. Plants require a water temperature of at least 65-70°F (18-21°C) during the growing season.
Watering
Originating from the warm, still waters of South America, santa cruz waterlily thrives in environments that mimic its tropical, humid habitat. This species is adept at conserving water, showcasing a preference for stable moisture levels without being submerged. Its watering routine aligns with a weekly rhythm, ensuring a consistent supply of water to maintain its lush vitality. Cultivated primarily as an outdoor aquatic plant, santa cruz waterlily flourishes when the interplay between water temperature and light nurtures its spectacular night-blooming flowers.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing santa cruz waterlily is crucial for robust growth and vibrant blooms. Utilize high phosphorus fertilizers to encourage flowering, applying every 4-6 weeks during active growth. Moderate quantities are essential—over-fertilization can harm santa cruz waterlily’s roots and water quality. Seasonally, increase fertilization as temperatures rise and santa cruz waterlily’s growth accelerates. For safety, wear gloves and distribute evenly around the plant to prevent nutrient burn. Tailor applications to santa cruz waterlily’s life stage; younger plants demand less. Invest in a water-soluble formula for seamless integration into santa cruz waterlily’s aquatic environment.
Propagation
Santa cruz waterlily is a grandiose and aquatic flower renowned for its expansive leaves that can bear considerable weight. To propagate santa cruz waterlily, sowing is the preferred method. This entails collecting seeds from mature pods, which should be directly sown into a fine, nutrient-rich substrate, ensuring optimal moisture conditions. It’s essential to maintain a warm and stable environment, as santa cruz waterlily thrives in consistently warm water temperatures. After germination, diligent care is necessary, including routine fertilization to support vigorous growth.
Transplanting
Transplant santa cruz waterlily in the embrace of warmer days, as late spring unfolds into early summer, ensuring ideal growth. Choose a spacious, sun-kissed aquatic environment. A friendly tip: santa cruz waterlily thrives with ample room to float and flourish.
Overwintering
In cold areas, containers may be brought indoors before the first frost for overwintering.
