Aquatic Banana Lily

Aquatic Banana Lily is one of the most unique and beginner-friendly aquarium plants available, instantly recognizable by the cluster of banana-shaped tubers at its base. These specialized tubers store nutrients, helping the plant establish quickly and thrive in a wide range of freshwater aquariums. As it matures, it produces attractive lily pad-like leaves that may remain submerged or grow to the water’s surface, creating a beautiful natural pond-like appearance. Depending on your aquascaping goals, floating leaves can be trimmed to encourage compact underwater growth or allowed to develop into an elegant surface canopy. Offered in both medium and large sizes, these well-established plants feature healthy root systems and are ready to become a stunning focal point in your aquarium.

Scientific Name: Nymphoides aquatica
Family: Menyanthaceae
Growth Form: Rosette with floating lily leaves
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
CO₂ Requirement: Not required, but beneficial for faster growth
Tank Placement: Midground to Background
Temperature Range: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
pH Range: 6.0–7.8
Max Height: 8–24+ inches (20–60+ cm), depending on whether floating leaves are allowed
Care Level: Easy
Origin: Southeastern United States

Why You’ll Love It:

• Distinctive banana-shaped tubers create a one-of-a-kind appearance
• Produces beautiful lily pad leaves for a natural, pond-inspired look
• Hardy and beginner-friendly with minimal care requirements
• Available in medium and large sizes with well-established root systems
• Can be maintained as a compact submerged plant or allowed to produce floating leaves for dramatic surface coverage
• Excellent centerpiece for aquariums, paludariums, and indoor ponds