If you want a bold pop of late-season color that brings the whole garden to life, meet Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis). This Missouri native is one of those plants that earns its place every single year.
What Is Cardinal Flower?
Cardinal Flower is a tall, striking native perennial that produces vivid scarlet blooms on tall flower spikes. The blooms open from the bottom of the spike and work their way up, so the color show lasts. The foliage is a deep green that transitions toward maroon near the tips, giving the plant interest even before it blooms.
It’s a big plant: it can reach 4 to 5 feet tall! So it brings genuine height and drama to the pond edge or bog area. And those red flowers aren’t just beautiful. They’re irresistible to hummingbirds and bees.
We ship plants like Cardinal Flower with the pond in mind. Pre-orders open at the beginning of each year and plants ship from spring through summer and into fall, timed around weather and planting conditions. All orders ship free!
Cardinal Flower Care Tips
Plant in a bog or shallow water — it thrives with consistently moist soil or up to a few inches of water over the roots
Full sun to part shade — flexible enough to brighten up a partially shaded spot
Give it room — this plant can reach 4–5 feet tall, so plan accordingly when placing it in your water garden
Growing Conditions: At a Glance
Feature
Details
Common Name
Cardinal Flower
Botanical Name
Lobelia cardinalis
Plant Height
4–5 ft.
Plant Spread
1–2 ft.
Light Requirements
Full sun to part shade
Water Depth
Up to 6 inches
USDA Hardiness Zone
Zone 3+
Grown For
Bringing hummingbirds to your pond!
Sun & Shade: Where Does Cardinal Flower Grow Best?
Cardinal Flower is flexible when it comes to light. It performs well in full sun to part shade, making it a good option for pond edges that don’t get a full day of direct sun. That said, you’ll typically get the best bloom production and most upright growth in a sunnier spot.
Water Requirements: Wet Feet Are a Must
Cardinal Flower is not a dry-soil plant. It wants consistently moist to wet conditions: a bog, a rain garden or shallow water at the pond’s edge are all ideal. It does well with its roots just in the water, up to about 6 inches over the top of the crown of the plant (or the top of the pot). If you have a spot that stays perpetually wet, this is exactly the plant for it.
Is Cardinal Flower Perennial or Annual?
Here’s the answer: it depends on where you live.
For most of the country, Cardinal Flower is a true perennial. It’s hardy to Zone 3, which covers virtually the entire contiguous United States. In St. Louis and throughout the Midwest, it will die back in winter and return reliably each spring.
Why Grow Cardinal Flower? 4 Reasons It Earns Its Place
1. It’s a hummingbird magnet.
If attracting hummingbirds to your water garden is on your list, Cardinal Flower belongs at the top of your planting plan. Those scarlet blooms are one of the most effective hummingbird draws you can plant.
2. It’s a true Missouri native. Cardinal Flower grows naturally throughout Missouri and much of North America. Native plants are well-adapted to local conditions and tend to thrive with minimal fuss, and they support local wildlife in ways other plants simply can’t.
3. It brings height and drama.
Cardinal Flower grows 4 to 5 feet tall, giving your water garden vertical interest and a late-season focal point when many other plants are winding down.
4. It naturally helps clarify your water!
Like all aquatic plants, Cardinal Flower acts as a natural filter, contributing to healthier, clearer water while providing habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Ready to Add Some Color to Your Water Garden?
Getting Cardinal Flower into your garden is the easiest part. Just a few clicks and we’ll ship it directly to your door, ready to get growing. And shipping is always free!
Ready to get growing?
Order Cardinal Flower Today
Order online in minutes. Ships free in spring and summer, right to your door. 🌿
Golden Creeping Jenny belongs along every pond edge!
If you want a plant that stops people in their tracks, meet Golden Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’). This award-winning ground cover is an old-time favorite for a reason: that foliage is genuinely gold!
What Is Golden Creeping Jenny?
Golden Creeping Jenny is a low-growing, spreading ground cover. It produces small, rounded, coin-shaped leaves on trailing stems that creep along the ground, or right down into the water. The leaves are smooth, often with a slight sheen, and glow a brilliant golden yellow that holds all season long.
In early summer, small cup-shaped yellow flowers appear, though they’re nearly the same color as the foliage, so you might not even notice them at first! The foliage is the real star here, and it earns its keep from the moment it wakes up in spring. The name “Moneywort” refers to those rounded, coin-like leaves. One look and you’ll understand why.
We ship plants like Golden Creeping Jenny with the pond in mind. Pre-orders open at the beginning of each year and plants ship from spring through summer and into fall, timed around weather and planting conditions. All orders ship free!
Golden Creeping Jenny Care Tips
Plant at the pond’s edge with roots just barely in the water, or up to 2 inches submerged
Maximize sun for maximum gold — the more sun it gets, the brighter that yellow will be; shade can pull it toward green
Let it spread — it only reaches about 4 inches tall, but it’s a natural creeper and will soften rocks and edges beautifully over time
Growing Conditions: At a Glance
Feature
Details
Common Name
Golden Creeping Jenny, Moneywort, Herb Twopence
Botanical Name
Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’
Plant Height
2–4 inches
Plant Spread
12–18 inches
Light Requirements
Full sun
Water Depth
Up to 2 inches
USDA Hardiness Zone
Zone 4+
Grown For
Foliage
Sun & Shade: Where Does Golden Creeping Jenny Grow Best?
Golden Creeping Jenny is at its best in full sun. The more direct light it gets, the more intense that golden foliage color becomes. It can tolerate shade, but in lower light conditions the leaves tend to shift from bright yellow toward a more muted green. If you’ve got a spot that gets a full day of sun, that’s where this plant belongs.
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, via Wikimedia CommonsAquariaNR, via Wikimedia Commons
Water Requirements: Right at Home in the Shallow End
This is a flexible plant for water gardeners. Golden Creeping Jenny thrives with its roots just barely touching water all the way up to 2 inches of water over the crown. It’s happy along a stream edge, tucked into the rocks at a pond’s perimeter, or even out in a Chalily Floating Island planter.
That creeping habit is exactly what makes it so useful: plant it, give it some moisture, and watch it trail along rocks and soften edges that would otherwise look bare.
Is Golden Creeping Jenny a Perennial or Annual?
Here’s the answer: it depends on where you live.
Golden Creeping Jenny is hardy, or perennial, to Zone 4, which covers the vast majority of the United States. For most pond owners, this is a true perennial. It will die back in winter and return reliably each spring without any special treatment.
Golden or Green — Which Creeping Jenny Is Right for You?
Can’t decide? We carry both, and they make a great pair. The two varieties share the same easygoing habit: low-growing, water-loving, and happy to spread along pond edges and rocks.
Golden Creeping Jenny brings that unmistakable bright yellow foliage that holds its color all season. It’s a statement plant — the kind that makes people ask what it is. Green Creeping Jenny is the classic look, with bright, lush foliage that’s earned its own set of awards — Best of Breed from NC State and Knock Your Socks Off from UGA.
Plant them together along a stream or pond edge and let the contrast do the work. Shop Green Creeping Jenny →
Why Grow Golden Creeping Jenny? 4 Reasons It Earns Its Place
1. That color is genuinely award-winning. Golden Creeping Jenny is the recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Merit, and once you see that foliage, it’s no surprise. That bright, sustained gold is hard to find in a pond plant.
2. It does the hard work of softening edges.
Rocks are great. Rocks with Golden Creeping Jenny trailing over them are better. This plant is a natural at covering up hard edges and making ponds and streams look like they’ve always been there.
3. A habitat for the whole ecosystem.
Golden Creeping Jenny creates a sheltered environment for frogs, insects and small fish. It’s not just pretty, it’s pulling its weight for the whole pond.
4. It naturally helps clarify your water.
Like all aquatic plants, Golden Creeping Jenny acts as a natural filter, pulling nutrients from the water and contributing to a healthier, clearer pond.
One More Idea: The Chalily Floating Island: Golden Creeping Jenny is one of our favorite plants for the Chalily Floating Island. Plant something taller in the center, tuck Creeping Jenny around the edges, and watch it trail right over the side and down into the water. Fish love the cover it provides… and it looks fantastic.
Ready to Add Some Gold to Your Water Garden?
Getting Golden Creeping Jenny into your garden is the easiest part. Just a few clicks and we’ll ship it directly to your door, ready to get growing. And shipping is always free!
Ready to get growing?
Order Golden Creeping Jenny Today
Order online in minutes. Ships free in spring and summer, right to your door. 🌿
Interested in more water garden plants? Explore our full collection and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for tips, plant spotlights, and more from Joe. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!
Mud under our fingernails, cold water up to our elbows and the satisfaction of pulling a perfect tuber out of a pot… that’s how we harvest lotus at Chalily!
Every lotus tuber that ships from Chalily, or gets planted in our garden center, starts the same way: harvested by hand, rinsed clean and inspected closely. It’s a muddy, meticulous job, and it sets the stage for everything that follows.
How Lotus Plants Grow
Before we get into the harvest, it helps to understand what we’re actually working with. Lotus are unlike most plants in your garden, and once you understand how they grow, the care we put into harvesting them makes a lot more sense.
Lotus are perennial aquatic plants with two species most commonly grown in water gardens: Nelumbo nucifera, native to Asia, and Nelumbo lutea, the American lotus, native to North America. In the wild, lotus spreads two ways: through seed and through its underground tubers (also known as rhizomes). Their seeds are remarkably resilient — there are documented cases of lotus seeds germinating after centuries lying dormant in mud. Growing lotus from seed is possible, but getting seedlings successfully established in a pond can be a challenge. For most growers, tubers are the reliable path to big summer blooms.
Anatomy of a Lotus Tuber
An example of a healthy lotus tuber, with several growth tips.
Here, our production team inspects each tuber. And yep, it’s muddy!
Each lotus tuber has a specific structure: nodes, internodes and growth tips.
That growth tip is the most important part of the whole plant. It’s where leaves, stems, and blooms all originate. A tuber with an intact, undamaged growth tip has its full potential ahead of it!
This is why every tuber is handled carefully. When you order online, your tuber arrives ready to plant from the start. At our garden center, we do that work for you: lotus are potted, established and ready to go straight into your pond.
Given the right conditions, that single growing tip drives everything. Leaves that rise up tall above the water. Blooms that can surpass ten inches across in shades of white, pink, red and yellow. A seed pod that many gardeners dry for floral arrangements. It all starts with a healthy tuber, which is exactly why the harvest matters.
Our online store and nationwide shipping are unaffected.
When it’s time to harvest, we move through growing pots systematically: rinsing away soil, separating tubers from root debris and inspecting each one carefully. It’s wet, muddy work and it takes a practiced eye.
Our team carefully assesses each tuber, checking for healthy growing tips.
Watercolor Lotus tubers, getting prepped for the season ahead.
Not every tuber that comes out of a pot is a good candidate for growth. The tubers we’re looking for have a particular feel to them. Firm, dense, and solid all the way through with healthy growing tips. And of course, they have to pass the smell test.
Soft, mushy, stinky or discolored tubers don’t make the cut.
We’d rather have fewer tubers we’re confident in than more tubers we’re not.
The ones that meet our standards get treated, labeled and stored under controlled conditions until they’re ready to ship or plant.
Every step of the way, the goal is the same: protect those growing tips and keep the tubers healthy and viable.
Why Timing Matters
For us at Chalily, the season begins on Valentine’s Day. While others dream of roses, our minds are filled bright lotus blooms.
They thrive when water temperatures are consistently above 50°F, which typically means late April to early May here in the St. Louis area. Plant too early and a cold snap can set back their growth.
Just a few weeks later, healthy lotus leaves are growing in our production greenhouses. Next up… blooms!
Whether you’re buying lotus tubers online or picking up a potted plant at our Wildwood garden center, we want you set up for success.
For online orders, lotus pre-orders open at the beginning of each year, with tubers shipping from spring through summer, timed around weather and planting conditions.
In our garden center in Wildwood, Missouri, lotus are potted and ready to take home when the weather is just right for planting in your pond. Lotus are temperature-sensitive, and getting them in the pond at the right time gives them the best shot at a full growing season.
Joseph’s Coat deserves a prime spot in your water garden!
If you want bold foliage around your pond, save a spot in your water garden for the vibrant Joseph’s Coat plant (Alternanthera ficoidea). We grow this one every year, and it’s an easy way to add color to your pond edges.
What Is Joseph’s Coat?
Joseph’s Coat comes from the West Indies and South America, and is typically grown as an annual across most of the United States. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and is grown almost exclusively for its foliage, not its tiny white flowers. What makes this plant a standout is its vibrant, marbled leaves that can display shades of green, maroon, red, pink, white, burgundy, chartreuse and purple, sometimes all on the same plant!
The common name is a nod to the Bible, referencing Joseph’s famously colorful coat, a fitting match for its bold, multicolored foliage.
We ship plants like Joseph’s Coat with the pond in mind. Pre-orders open at the beginning of each year and plants ship from spring through summer and into fall, timed around weather and planting conditions. All orders ship free!
Joseph’s Coat Care Tips
Plant in aquatic soil to hold roots in place along the pond
Zone 9 and below: Plan to either overwinter indoors or replace annually
Growing Conditions: At a Glance
Feature
Details
Common Name
Joseph’s Coat
Botanical Name
Alternanthera ficoidea
Plant Height
6–12 inches
Plant Spread
6–18 inches
Light Requirements
Full sun to part shade
Water Depth
Prefers moist soil over being planted in the water
USDA Hardiness Zone
Zone 10+ (annual elsewhere)
Grown For
Foliage color
Sun & Shade: Where Does Joseph’s Coat Grow Best?
Joseph’s Coat performs beautifully in full sun to part shade. One important tip: the best, most vivid leaf color tends to develop in full sun. If you tuck it into too much shade, you may lose some of that stunning contrast in the foliage. That said, it’s flexible enough to brighten up partially shaded spots around your pond or water feature.
Water Requirements: Moist, Not Submerged
This is a key detail for water gardeners. Joseph’s Coat thrives in consistently moist to slightly wet soil. We usually see it planted right along pond edges or in consistently damp beds, anywhere that stays wet but not submerged.
If you have that perpetually soggy spot, this is your answer. Joseph’s Coat will reward you with lush, colorful growth from late spring through early fall.
Is Joseph’s Coat a Perennial or Annual?
Here’s the answer: it depends on where you live.
Joseph’s Coat is perennial only to USDA Zone 10+, meaning the warmest parts of the country (parts of Florida, Southern California, and the Gulf Coast). For the rest of us, it’s treated as an annual. When frost approaches, you have two options:
Bring it indoors and overwinter it as a houseplant.
Let it go and replant with fresh plants next spring.
Either way, it’s worth the effort or the repeat purchase.
Why Grow Joseph’s Coat? 4 Reasons It Earns Its Place
1. Unbeatable foliage color.
Few plants offer this range of color without a single flower. The marbled combination of green, pink, red and burgundy creates living artwork in the garden.
2. Easy to grow.
Once established in moist soil with adequate light, Joseph’s Coat asks for very little. But those leaves will show off a lot!
3. Perfect for water garden edges.
It fills a specific niche: plants that love consistently wet or moist conditions. Shallow pond edges, bog gardens and rain gardens are ideal homes.
4. Works as a natural filter.
Like other water-loving plants, Joseph’s Coat contributes to the health of your water garden ecosystem, helping to naturally filter and clarify water.
Ready to Add Some Color to Your Water Garden?
Getting Joseph’s Coat into your garden is the easiest part! Just a few clicks and we’ll ship it directly to your door, ready to get growing. Oh, and shipping is always free!
Ready to get growing?
Order Joseph’s Coat Plant Today
Order online in minutes. Ships free in spring and summer, right to your door. 🌿
Interested in more water garden plants? Explore our full collection and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for tips, plant spotlights, and more from Joe. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!
In 1906, George Pring needed to decide where he would work. His choice would both change and enrich many lives, offering our gardens beauty unmatched before.
George Harry Ethelbert Pring was born December 2, 1885, in Devonshire, England, the youngest of four children of Charles and Mahalla Pring. Charles was a successful builder in Exmouth until the ‘Depression’ hit, and the family moved to the London area. Young George grew up about two blocks from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Upon reaching the highest level of school at the time, about the seventh grade, George took on an apprenticeship at Kew.
Both father and son figured that George would follow in his father’s business and someday end up in the building profession. Charles Pring told his son, “We can always make an architect out of you later on,” when he learned of the Kew apprenticeship.
Just shy of his 14th birthday, Pring began work at Kew each morning at 6:00. Breakfast and a lunch hour were at eight and twelve respectively. The day ended at 6:00 p.m. Cleaning pots, feeding the chickens, and packing plants for shipment were part of Pring’s early duties.
As time went on, he took charge of the carnivorous plants and eventually was also put in charge of two of the orchid houses. Finally, some training on the actual grounds gave Pring a well-rounded, horticultural experience. The best possible education in horticulture in the early 1900’s was a two-year training program at the Queen’s School of the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew. During the evening classes, Pring began to sit in on the lectures, since he was not yet the mandatory 21-years-of-age necessary to enter the program. Pring took notes and attended the lectures for practice, hoping one day to enter the program. At one point, he turned in his lecture book, along with all the regular students, to be graded. Receiving good marks, the lecture book captured the eye of the Director. Barely 19, young George was inducted into the Kew program as the youngest student ever.
From England to St. Louis: A Young Horticulturist Finds His Path
With the end of his second year, anticipating employment, Pring learned of positions at other botanical gardens. The first position was at the Botanical Gardens of Calcutta, India, and the second was at Missouri Botanical Garden (MBG) in St. Louis. Missouri Botanical Garden was looking for someone to take charge of the orchids. Pring was told that he would make a better American than an Indian. Being just 20, Pring needed his parents’ permission to go to America.
“You’re far too young,” his parents told him. Finally, George’s father stated, “I’m going to say to you that you decide for yourself. It’s your career. It’ll be your future.” Ten days after George H. Pring said yes, he began to work at Missouri Botanical Garden.
In the late winter of 1906, with 6 inches of snow on the ground, George Pring arrived at Missouri Botanical Garden. He would stay for 63 years. Over those years MBG changed quite a bit, and some of the fantastic growth would not have taken place were it not for George H. Pring.
When Pring was shown the orchids at MBG, he challenged himself to work toward a Kew-style collection. Although orchids were just one of the many horticulture fields in which Pring worked at MBG, he was an orchid expert for more than 60 years and developed numerous outstanding hybrid orchids that are registered with the American Orchid Society.
Mr. Pring was the driving force in making the annual Orchid Show a success. He staged shows in New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C., along with a number of other cities. These
exhibits were both educational and outright beautiful. In 1954 the First World Orchid Congress was held in St. Louis with Pring as Chairman of the event. Over the years, Pring accumulated many awards and compliments as Chairman of Installation.
Pring’s plant-collecting trips to Central and South America began in 1923. While on his first trip to Colombia, Pring established a tropical station on behalf of MBG in the Canal Zone. The station was used for research in orchids and annual plants. When Pring returned from one trip that lasted six months, he arrived home with more than 5,000 plants. Over the course of his career, the MBG’s orchid collection grew from the 300 plants when Pring arrived to over 50,000 plants with about 1200 varieties. The MBG orchid collection was second to none, including Kew Gardens.
In 1907, keeping a promise made to his parents, George Pring returned home for a visit 18 months after his arrival to St. Louis. On the boat trip to England, he met a young lady, Isabelle McAdie, who was traveling with her grandmother to visit an uncle. Over the next three years, the friendship turned to romance. The couple wed in New York and returned to St. Louis to raise four children. With influences of the family home on MBG property and their father’s passionate occupation, the three Pring boys became horticulturists and the Prings’ daughter married a botanist.
George Pring was not alone in his dedication to Missouri Botanical Garden. His wife, Belle, as she was most commonly known, helped establish the Garden’s auxiliary, which operated Tower Grove House, the home of MBG founder Henry Shaw. It was the Prings’ friendships, in fact, that led to the restoration of the building. Belle initiated the first volunteer program to staff the home for public tours, and she herself filled in many times for no-shows over the years to keep the project alive. Belle also served many garden clubs of the area in various posts, including President of the Better Gardens Club and the Margaret Krueger Conservation Club.
The Father of Annual Water Lilies
Although George Pring’s work with orchids and annual plant collection alone would immortalize him in MBG history, he is perhaps most recognized for his accomplishments with the annual water lilies. If you visit a public display of water lilies or open an aquatic plant catalog, you view his work. Pring introduced improved quality, improved forms, and even new colors of annual water lilies. For such a significant body of work, Pring is undisputed as “the father of annual water lilies.” Pring’s legacy began in 1912 when he decided to cross-pollinate some water lilies. Pring later explained two reasons for his changing field of interest from orchids to water lilies: “First, to grow lilies from seed to bloom takes only one year, but an orchid can take seven years. Hybrid lilies can thus be produced sooner. Second, there were few if any, horticulturists working with annual water lilies, providing a challenging field for experimentation.”
Pring was most intrigued with day-blooming annual water lilies. Blooming high above the water’s surface and their floating leaves for 4-6 successive days during the long summer hours, many of them bear a wonderful fragrance well worth an indulgent trip into the pond.
Pring set very high standards when introducing a new hybrid; many of his lilies are still considered to be the best. For example, out of nearly 250 pollinations that produced thousands of seedlings, just eight plants met Pring’s criteria and would be introduced. George Pring introduced only two night-blooming lilies. All of his other introductions are day-blooming lilies.
The first Gold Medal ever awarded by the National Association of Gardeners was given to Pring’s introduction of the Whitaker Strain of lilies in 1920. It was stated at the time of the award, “This has opened up a new era in water lily fame.” Pring’s continued work with water lilies forced MBG to build bigger display pools to better showcase his creations. Pring’s next breakthrough came, after careful breeding, with the introduction of the first white hybrid annual water lily. Exhibited for the first time at the National Flower Show in 1922, this lily was awarded a Silver Medal from the Society of American Florists. It is often speculated that this lily was one of Pring’s all-time favorites. He named it ‘Mrs. George H. Pring’ to honor his wife. Another Silver Medal was awarded to Pring the next year by the Society for ‘General Pershing,’ which is a large pink lily.
Nymphaea “Mrs. George Pring” in bloom. Photo by for Raffi Kojian Gardenology.org.Nymphaea “Mrs. George Pring” display. Photo by for Raffi Kojian Gardenology.org.
The Lost Yellow Lily
Pring’s accomplishments have assumed legendary proportions. One true tale begins with the St. Louis newspapers being called to announce that a twelve-year project to find the “lost yellow lily” of Africa was completed. The fabled yellow lily had been described but had not been seen for many years, rumored to be ‘lost’ to cultivation. Finally, a seed pod arrived in St. Louis via Pring’s research contacts in Africa. Pring examined the pod and its contents, only to be disappointed. “The seed pod was collected too early. These seeds are immature.” Stubbornly, Pring made an important decision. “We’re gonna take every one of these seeds out and soak them. There’s always a possibility that one might be fertile.”
Pring took the pod to Joe Cutak, his assistant, and the two men soaked every seed, totaling about 3,000. Within three weeks, Cutak reported, “I think there’s a little seedling coming through – the yellow water lily.” Pring later reported, “When the first (flower) bud appeared, he (Joe Cutak) and I couldn’t wait.” They opened the flower bud and were “highly delighted.” It was indeed “the lost yellow lily.” An unbelievable story, one seed out of about three thousand germinated… just one seed germinated. Pring not only proved its existence, but he would later produce some of his best lilies using “the lost yellow lily” as a parent.
The color yellow had not previously been seen in annual water lilies, making this a most notable discovery. Pring would go on to introduce several new hybrids in the yellow color range, the first
being ‘St. Louis,’ which was the only Pring lily ever granted a U.S. patent. The ‘St. Louis’ lily was also awarded the National Flower Show’s Medal in 1933. ‘Aviator Pring’ is a dark yellow lily named to honor Pring’s youngest son who was killed during a flight while he served in the military.
Besides his son and his wife, Pring also named a lily for his daughter. ‘Isabelle Pring’ is a wonderful white lily. ‘Joanne Pring’, a dark pink flower, is named for his first granddaughter. As
you visit displays of annual water lilies in the future, you will spot these names and many more. Pring often would name a lily after a family member or a person significant to his work. There are also lilies named for staff of Missouri Botanical Garden such as ‘Joe Cutak’ and ‘Director George T. Moore.’ In total, George Pring created or introduced about 40 annual water lilies over the course of 45 years. This feat is still unmatched. Pring’s breeding efforts are still studied by current hybridizers. To his credit, Pring kept detailed records and made his breeding public. When he introduced a new plant, he published the work in great detail in Missouri Botanical Gardens’ Bulletin. A large portion of these forty lilies have stood the test of time and are still considered the best.
Besides introducing the first white annual hybrid, ‘Mrs. George H. Pring’ and the first yellow annual hybrid, ‘St. Louis,’ Pring also introduced the first hybrids of pygmy forms for the home gardeners. And last, but not least, he introduced the first white form of the gigantean species from Australia calling it ‘Albert De Lestang.’ In referring to the Australian species lily, Pring once stated, “Nymphaea gigantea blue is the finest annual water lily of any in cultivation, including my own hybrids.”
Toward the end of George Pring’s career, a newspaper article shared his “three loves.” The article told of Pring’s work with orchids, water lilies, and his lovely wife. It went on to say that these were the “three loves of George Pring.” Well, Mrs. Pring “did not like that very well” as she was listed third after the orchids and lilies. This remained quite the joke for years to come. Although these may have been Pring’s loves, it is not the complete picture.
Pring was the President or vice-president of a number of local plant societies. He was a popular lecturer, speaking on subjects from “Insect Pollination of Flowers” to “Plant Explorations in
Central and South America.” He became “the answer man,” responding to the numerous questions that came to MBG. Pring also hosted a radio program with this same concept, answering gardeners’ questions about their plants. George Pring wrote numerous articles for such publications as the Ladies Home Journal, Saturday Evening Post, and Life Magazine. He collaborated on several books, for example, Taylor’s Encyclopedia and Garden Pools, Water-lilies and Goldfish. One of his later accomplishments was his consultation in the design of the magnificent lily pools at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania.
Missouri Botanical Garden was ever changed by George Pring’s decision to work in St. Louis rather than in Calcutta. Thank goodness we’ll never know what “young George would have accomplished in Calcutta.” Missouri Botanical Garden and the world now benefit from what Pring accomplished in St. Louis. After their deaths, Missouri Botanical Garden established the “Pring Memorial Garden” to honor Mr. And Mrs. George H. Pring. Located in the Japanese Garden, this special Memorial Garden is near where the couple lived. Also, “The Pring Water Lily Pool’ is dedicated to forever honor the man and his work, showcasing the beauty of only Pring’s annual water lilies therein. Two plaques near the memorial pool share his history with visitors.
George Pring made many decisions in his life that benefited many of us. He himself said, “If I had my life to do over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. I’d marry the same girl, no regrets at all.” We can only hope that we each can say the same of our life decisions.
This article was originally published in Pond & Garden magazine in 2001, when Chalily owner Joe Summers was serving as a Production Greenhouse Horticulturist at Missouri Botanical Garden, where aquatic plant production was among his responsibilities.
If you’re searching for the best pond plants to add to your pond this season, start with the varieties water gardeners loved most last year. Our top sellers from stg-chalilycom-staging.kinsta.cloud included reliable bloomers, bold lotus, floating coverage and classic pond-edge plants that make great additions to backyard koi ponds and water gardens.
We ship plants with the pond in mind. Pre-orders open at the beginning of each year and plants ship from spring through summer and into fall, timed around weather and planting conditions. All orders ship free!
Joe’s Top Plant Tips
Fertilize water lilies and lotus on the 1st and 15th of each month during the growing season for bigger blooms and stronger foliage!
Use Aquatic Soil to anchor your plants and deliver essential nutrients to all of your favorite pond plants
If you’re building a new pond, add a shelf around the perimeter to give shallow water plants a place to thrive
Plants help filter your pond, naturally, preventing algae blooms and keeping your pond ecosystem balanced and healthy
1. Virginalis Water Lilies
White as snow, but blooms all summer!
‘Virginalis’ is one of the most beloved white water lilies in water gardening, treasured for its picturesque snowy blooms and free flowering habit that lasts well into the season. This variety brings both timeless beauty and dependable performance to ponds of all sizes.
If you’re searching for a perennial water lily for pond planting, this variety delivers beauty and performance year after year.
👉 Best in full sun at 6–48 inches water depth with a 3–4 ft spread once mature.
What Makes Virginalis Water Lilies So Popular?
Pure white blooms: Cup-shaped flowers that resemble freshly fallen snow, creating a serene pond ambiance.
Long bloom season: Flowers reliably from spring through summer and into early autumn.
Pleasant light fragrance: Adds sensory appeal to your water garden.
Perennial in most ponds: A perennial water lily hardy to USDA zones 3+, suitable for most backyard ponds.
Water clarity benefits: Like most water lilies, its pads help shade surface water and support natural clarity.
Water Lettuce is one of the easiest and most rewarding floating pond plants you can add to your water garden. With its soft, velvety rosettes that resemble an open head of lettuce, this floating plant creates instant texture and coverage across the pond surface.
If you’re building a healthy pond system or searching for reliable floating water plants, Water Lettuce is one of the simplest additions you can make, and one of last year’s proven favorites.
👉 Thrives in full sun to partial sun, floating freely on the surface and spreading naturally throughout warm summer months.
What Makes Water Lettuce So Popular?
Soft green rosettes: Velvety, lettuce-like foliage floats gracefully on the surface, adding texture and a lush, natural look to your pond.
Fish-friendly root system: Long, feathery roots hang beneath the plant, providing shelter and shade for fish while enhancing the ecosystem.
Fast seasonal growth: Multiplies quickly in warm weather, creating beautiful surface coverage throughout summer.
Easy, no-plant care: A free-floating aquatic plant that requires no potting or soil! Simply place it on the water’s surface.
Water balance benefits: Helps shade the pond, reduces excess nutrients and supports clearer, healthier water conditions.
Holy Fire Lotus is a bold, upright lotus variety known for its vivid blooms and strong presence in the water garden. With dramatic flowers rising above large, architectural leaves, it instantly becomes the focal point of any pond or container water garden.
If you’re searching for a show-stopping lotus plant that commands attention, Holy Fire Lotus delivers bold color and vertical elegance all summer long.
👉 Best grown in full sun in a wide container with ample room to spread and thrive.
What Makes Holy Fire Lotus So Popular?
Brilliant upright blooms: Vibrant flowers rise above the foliage, creating height and dramatic visual impact.
Large architectural leaves: Round lotus leaves stand above the water’s surface, adding structure and shade.
Statement plant presence: Ideal as a centerpiece in ponds or patio containers where you want maximum color and height.
Season-long interest: Offers evolving beauty from bud to bloom to decorative seed pod.
Container-friendly growth: Performs beautifully in wide containers with proper space to spread.
Is there anything better than Cattail by the pond?
Cattails remain one of the most searched and recognized pond-edge plants. They give ponds a natural, wildlife-friendly feel without overwhelming the space. With slender green blades and classic brown seed heads, it adds height, texture and movement along pond edges.
If you’re looking for a manageable cattail for pond edges that delivers natural beauty without aggressive spreading, Graceful Cattail is a reliable and elegant choice.
👉 Best planted on pond shelves in shallow water with full sun for strong, upright growth.
What Makes Cattails So Popular?
Slender upright foliage: Narrow green blades create clean vertical lines that add structure without looking bulky.
Compact growth habit: Graceful Cattails are more controlled than traditional cattails, making them ideal for smaller water gardens.
Classic seed heads: Produces the familiar brown cattail spikes that add seasonal interest and natural charm.
Wildlife-friendly presence: Offers habitat and shelter for birds and beneficial pond life.
Edge-softening structure: Perfect for planting along pond margins to create a smooth transition from water to landscape.
Panama Pacific Water Lily is a vibrant annual water lily known for its rich purple blooms and bold presence. With striking color and continuous flowering, it brings energy and brightness to backyard ponds all summer long.
If you’re looking for a vibrant addition to your pond this season, Panama Pacific is sure to dazzle pondside guests (and pollinators!).
👉 Best grown in full sun at 6–24 inches of water depth; considered an annual in most climates.
What Makes Panama Pacific Water Lilies So Popular?
Deep purple blooms: Bold, jewel-toned flowers create high contrast against green lily pads.
Continuous summer flowering: Produces abundant blooms throughout warm weather.
Loves hot weather: Thrives in heat and performs best during peak summer months.
Beautiful surface coverage: Lush pads help shade the pond and enhance overall balance.
Statement color choice: Perfect for gardeners who want dramatic, eye-catching blooms.
Start with the varieties water gardeners trusted most last year.
Whether you’re building your first pond or refreshing a long-loved water garden, these top pond plants of 2025 are proven performers for beauty, balance and reliability. From bold lotus to dependable water lilies and hardworking floating plants, each one earned its spot last season. 🏆
Ready to get growing?
Order Pond Plants Today
Order online in minutes. Get free shipping on all orders.
Interested in more water garden plants? Explore our full collection and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for tips, plant spotlights, and more from Joe. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!
Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) – also known as water cabbage, water lettuce, Nile cabbage, or shellflower – transforms any pond into a lush aquatic paradise with its distinctive rosette of green leaves that float gracefully on the water’s surface. This remarkable floating plant creates natural beauty while serving as a living filter, keeping pond water clean and clear.
Whether you’re new to water gardening or looking to expand your aquatic collection, water lettuce offers an easy way to enhance your pond’s ecosystem, no soil required!
Joe’s Water Lettuce Pro Tips
Water Lettuce is a fast-growing floating plant that requires no soil or planting.
Its feathery roots extend below the surface, making a tasty snack for koi.
The plant thrives in warm temperatures between 65-85°F and needs partial to full sunlight.
Water lettuce naturally filters pond water by absorbing excess nutrients and producing oxygen.
Regular pruning prevents overcrowding and maintains healthy growth in your pond.
The plant reproduces through runners, creating new plants that can be shared or relocated.
What Makes Water Lettuce Special
Water Lettuce has been floating around far longer than most people realize. Fossil specimens found in Florida date back to the late Pleistocene and early Holocene — we’re talking ahttps://stg-chalilycom-staging.kinsta.cloud/wp-admin/admin.php?page=wc-adminnywhere from 3,500 to 12,000 years ago — suggesting it has native roots in the southeastern United States, not just the tropical origins it’s often associated with.
The plant stands out amongpond plants for its unique floating nature and impressive water-cleaning abilities. It floats on the surface of the water, its roots hanging submersed beneath thick, floating leaves. These leaves form velvetty rosettes that can reach 6-10 inches across, creating natural lily pad-like coverage on your pond’s surface. Unlike rooted aquatic plants, water lettuce simply floats freely, making it one of the most low-maintenancefloating pond plants you can add to your water garden or patio pond. Water Lettuce is also packed with benefits for your pond’s ecosystem, creating shelter for fish and removing excess nutrients from the water to prevent algae blooms.
Water Lettuce illustration from Southern Wild Flowers and Trees by Alice Lounsberry (1901)Pistia stratiotes illustration from Flore des serres et des jardins de l’Europe by Charles Lemaire (1851)
Getting Started with Water Lettuce
Starting your Water Lettuce journey couldn’t be simpler! Whether you’re purchasing them in person or online, they’re ready to be placed in the pond.
Follow these simple steps to add Water Lettuce to your pond:
Inspect your plants – Roots should appear white or cream-colored. Sometimes they can be brown or black as well. Depends on the time of year and water temperatures.
Choose the right location – Find a quiet area away from pumps or heavy water movement
Position for optimal sunlight – Select spots that receive 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
If any roots seem damaged during shipping or transport, don’t worry. The plant will quickly regenerate new root growth once placed in your pond. Water Lettuce adapts well to various pond sizes, from small container gardens to large landscape ponds.
For the first few days, monitor your plants closely to ensure they’re adjusting well to their new environment. Healthy Water Lettuce will show signs of new growth within a week, with fresh leaves emerging from the center of each rosette. Water Lettuce is among the world’s most productive freshwater aquatic plants, reproducing through runners, creating new plants that can be shared or relocated.
Creating the Perfect Growing Environment
Temperature Requirements Water lettuce thrives in warm water temperatures between 65-85°F, making it perfect for spring through fall growing in most climates.
Sunlight Needs Proper lighting makes all the difference for healthy growth:
Minimum 4-6 hours of direct morning sunlight
Afternoon shade in extremely hot climates
Too much intense sun can cause leaf burn
Insufficient light leads to pale, weak growth
Amongwater garden plants, water lettuce ranks as one of the most adaptable regarding water quality. The plant actually improves water conditions as it grows, absorbing excess nutrients that would otherwise fuel algae growth.
Troubleshooting Common Water Lettuce Issues
Yellowing or Browning Leaves This typically indicates either nutrient deficiency or temperature stress. If leaves turn yellow while water temperatures remain warm, consider adding aquatic plant fertilizer to boost nutrition. Brown, crispy edges usually signal too much direct sun, especially during hot afternoon hours.
Root Problems Black or mushy root systems indicate poor water quality or stagnant conditions. Improve water circulation around your plants and ensure adequate pond filtration to prevent root rot issues. Healthy roots should appear white or cream-colored and feel firm to the touch.
Slow Growth Often results from insufficient sunlight or cool water temperatures. Move plants to brighter locations when possible, or wait for warmer weather to stimulate natural growth patterns. Remember thatwater lettuce care varies with seasonal conditions, and slower growth during cool periods is completely normal.
Expanding Your Floating Plant Collection
Once you experience success with water lettuce, consider exploring otherfloating pond plants to create diverse aquatic displays. Different floating species offer varying leaf shapes, sizes, and growth patterns that complement water lettuce’s distinctive appearance.
Combining multiple floating plant types creates layered visual interest while providing comprehensive water filtration benefits. Each species contributes unique characteristics to your pond ecosystem, from different root structures to varied nutrient absorption capabilities.
Water lettuce is a low-maintenance floating plant that combines beauty and function with its rosette leaves and natural water-filtering abilities. It reproduces easily through runners, adapts well to pond conditions, and adds lasting charm to both new and established water gardens.
Ready to get growing?
Order Water Lettuce Today
Order online in minutes. Pre-orders open each January, and plants ship free in spring and summer. 🌿
Interested in more water garden plants? Explore our full collection and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for tips, plant spotlights, and more from Joe. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!
Water lilies are the superstars of any pond, but when they stop blooming or just seem sluggish, it’s frustrating. The good news? It usually comes down to just a few fixable things: light, fertilizer, or overcrowding. With a little attention and the right tools, you can bring your lily back to life and keep it blooming all season long.
Key Takeaways
Make sure your lilies get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Fertilize twice a month during the growing season.
Use pond-safe containers with nutrient-rich aquatic soil.
Divide overgrown lilies every 2 to 3 years.
Watch for signs of stress like tall leaves or weak blooms.
Sunlight: The #1 Reason Your Lily Won’t Bloom
Most water lilies need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to bloom properly. Less than that? You might get leaves but no flowers. The more sun, the better. If your pond is shaded by trees, buildings, or fencing, try relocating the container to a sunnier part of the water. Shifting just a few feet can make a huge difference in bloom production.
If full sun isn’t possible, consider trimming back nearby branches or switching to a variety that tolerates partial shade. But for most tropical and hardy lilies, sun is non-negotiable.
Even the best soil runs out of nutrients over time. That’s why consistent fertilizing is a must if you want bold, frequent blooms. At Chalily, we recommend usingAquatic Gold Soil tablets every two weeks, ideally on the 1st and 15th of each month during the growing season.
Insert the fertilizer near the base of the tuber, but avoid touching the growing tip. This keeps energy focused on flower production rather than just leaves. Without regular feeding, even lilies in sunny ponds can stall out. If you’ve been skipping feedings, that’s likely the problem.
Know When It’s Time to Divide
If your lily has tons of leaves but few or no flowers, or if the leaves are reaching far above the water surface, it might be overcrowded. Lilies in 10-inch pots usually need dividing every 2 to 3 years.
Look for signs like:
Leaves standing unusually high above the water
Weak or fewer blooms than usual
Tuber growing to the edge of the pot
Dividing sounds intimidating, but it’s actually simple. You’ll cut the tuber into smaller pieces, each with its own growing tip. Replant them in fresh containers with new aquatic soil, and you’ll likely see healthier growth in just a few weeks.
You can follow our video guide or keep it simple: remove the plant, trim dead leaves, cut between growing tips, and replant into fresh soil. Most of the time, a single lily becomes two or three new plants.
Pond lilies don’t want dry or fast-draining soil. They thrive in dense, nutrient-rich planting media, not potting mix or pea gravel. A proper pond soil blend like Chalily’s Aquatic Gold mimics natural pond conditions.
Use containers without holes to prevent nutrient loss and murky water. Cloth or rigid plastic pots work well. When you plant, leave the growing tip exposed just above the surface of the soil, and don’t pack it down too tightly.
Avoid decorative baskets with slits or drainage holes. These let nutrient-rich soil leach out, clouding the pond water and starving the plant. Solid pots keep everything in and help maintain healthy roots.
Don’t Let Fish Ruin Your Setup
Some fish, especially koi, like to dig or nibble around the base of pond plants. This can uproot young lilies or disturb the soil. To avoid this, cover the soil surface with large pieces of gravel or decorative stones. It keeps things in place while still allowing shoots to grow through.
If you’re having repeated issues, consider using a plant cage or protective mesh to keep fish out while the lily gets established.
Another option is to add a top layer of coarse gravel around the base of the lily. This gives fish less access and keeps your planting media intact.
Watch for Early Warning Signs
Your lily will tell you when it’s unhappy. Here are a few early signs:
Tall, leggy leaves = overcrowding or too little light
Yellowing leaves = old foliage or temperature stress
No blooms = not enough sun or skipped feedings
Fix the core issue and your plant will bounce back quickly. Lilies are tougher than they look. They respond fast to improved care, often sending up new leaves and buds in just a few days.
Before we dive into bonus tips, it’s worth noting that there are a lot of helpful resources available online if you’re trying to better understand how togrow water lilies. You can also find thoughtful advice on how tocare for water lilies and get inspired by stunning examples ofwater lilies in real garden settings.
Bonus: Tips for Year-Round Success
Start lilies indoors in heated tubs if you want early blooms in spring.
Clean out dead leaves regularly so energy stays with healthy growth.
Keep a fertilizing calendar to stay on track.
Check for crowding yearly to avoid stalled growth.
One of the best ways to boost long-term success is to review how you plant and grow water lilies each season. This helps spot patterns, avoid repeat mistakes, and get better blooms every year.
Not All Pond Plants Are Built the Same
While lilies are often the star of the show, they pair well with other water flowers like water hyacinth or water lettuce. These can add texture and vertical interest to your pond while lilies take care of the color.
To explore even more great options for your pond setup, browse Chalily’s curated list of must-have pond plants.
Ready to refresh your pond with thriving, colorful lilies? Explore Chalily’s full collection of water lilies and supplies on their product page.
Conclusion
If your water lily isn’t blooming, don’t panic. The fix is usually simple: more sun, more fertilizer, or a quick repot. With just a little effort, you can transform a tired lily into a vibrant centerpiece. Stick to the basics, watch for signs, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Your pond will thank you.
Thinking about adding some life to your pond? You’re in the right spot! Picking the right plants can make a huge difference, not just for looks but for the whole pond environment. We’re talking about plants that are native to the U.S., so they’ll fit right in and thrive without a ton of fuss. Forget those tricky, high-maintenance plants; we want easy-peasy.
This list of top 10 native pond plants for U.S. ponds will help you pick some real winners that are good for your pond and look great too.
Key Takeaways
Native plants are a great choice for U.S. ponds because they’re already suited to the local climate.
These plants help keep your pond water clean and balanced, which is pretty neat.
Many of them provide good spots for local wildlife to hang out and find food.
You can find a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can make your pond look exactly how you want it.
Using native plants often means less work for you since they’re naturally tough and adaptable.
Arrowhead, also known as Duck Potato or Wapato, is a fantastic addition to any pond. It’s a real workhorse when it comes to keeping your pond clean and healthy. You’ll find it’s one of the most interesting plants you can have, and it’s super versatile.
Arrowhead is quite effective at nutrient uptake. It improves water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and acts as a natural biofilter. It does well in soils that are quite wet or have up to 8 inches of water. In the late summer, it makes a tuber that you can eat – this nutritious root was traditionally extensively used by Native Americans and supported Lewis and Clark during their western expedition. Animals adore it, so be ready for them to eat it.
Arrowhead is an excellent choice for stabilizing shoreline sediments and adding texture to your pond’s edge. It’s easy to plant and maintain, making it a great option for both novice and experienced pond owners.
Here are some things to keep in mind when planting Arrowhead:
Blue Flag, or Iris versicolor, is a plant if you’re aiming for that classic, natural pond look. Picture walking up to your pond and seeing these gorgeous blue flowers creating a stunning display. This plant is native to North America.
The deep blue flowers are a total showstopper, and they’re perfect for pond edges and wet areas.
Blue Flags flourish in wet conditions and provide a burst of color right when you need it most. Plus, they’re native, so you’re supporting local ecosystems. It’s a win-win.
They’re pretty low-maintenance, too. Once they’re established, you can mostly leave them alone. Just maybe divide them every few years to keep them from getting too crowded. Honestly, if you’re looking for a plant that gives you a lot of bang for your buck, the Blue Flag is it. You can even use Blue Flag Iris to naturalize wet areas.
Here’s a quick rundown of why you should consider adding Blue Flags to your pond:
They add a vibrant splash of color.
They are helpful for keeping the soil stable around the water’s edge.
They attract pollinators, like bees and butterflies.
Bulrush, also known as Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, is a fantastic addition if you’re aiming for a natural, wild look around your pond. It’s one of those plants that just screams ‘wetland’ and can really transform the edge of your pond into a vibrant habitat. You’ll find that it’s relatively easy to care for, and it offers a lot of benefits for local wildlife. This plant is native throughout North America.
Bulrushes are perennials, so they’ll keep coming back year after year. Just give them a trim in the late fall to keep things tidy. Plus, they’re great for telling apart from cattails – bulrushes have round stems, while cattails have flat leaves.
Here’s a quick rundown of why you might want to consider bulrush:
Provides excellent protection from erosion.
Provides shade and protection for aquatic animals.
The seeds it makes are great for ducks and other birds.
When establishing bulrush in your pond, place them in shallow water near the pond’s edge where they can provide the best erosion control benefits.
Hardy Canna plants or also known as “Thalia” is native to Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, South Carolina, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. They can transform ponds with their vibrant colors and can handle full sun to partial shade. They can be planted 6 inches deep, in a wetland, or at the edge of a pond or stream. Hardy Cannas can be planted in a pot or directly in the pond. Hardy Cannas are hardy in zones 4-11, making them suitable for most parts of the US. They add tropical flair to ponds without much fuss.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
Planting Depth: About 6 inches
Hardiness Zones: 4+
With a little care, your Hardy Cannas will thrive and bring a burst of color to your pond. You won’t regret it!
Lizard’s Tail is a native plant from the Midwestern and Eastern United States, known for its arching flower spike resembling a lizard’s tail. Its understated elegance and native quality make it a popular choice for gardens. Lizard’s Tail is easy to care for, requiring moist soil and partial shade. It attracts wildlife and can be a unique touch to ponds or water gardens.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Prefers moist soil
Partial shade is ideal
Attracts cool insects
Low maintenance
If you’re setting up a live pond plant, this one is a great choice!
Pickerelweed, native to the Midwestern and Eastern US, features upright flower spikes in shades of purple, blue, or pink. It adds a vertical element to ponds and is popular with bees. Pickerelweed provides shelter for aquatic critters and helps clean water. It’s easy to care for, requiring a pot near the pond’s edge with plenty of sun. Planting in spring for best results is recommended. This plant is a great choice for both aesthetics and benefits.
Here’s a few things to keep in mind:
It likes shallow water: Aim for about 4-12 inches deep.
It spreads: So, if you don’t want it taking over, keep it contained in a pot.
It attracts wildlife: Get ready for more bees, butterflies, and maybe even some dragonflies!
Pickerelweed is a solid choice if you’re looking to add some color and life to your pond. It’s easy to grow, looks great, and helps the ecosystem. What’s not to love?
Water Willow is a native wildflower from the Midwestern and Eastern US, extending from the Gulf Coast to Canada. It stands about one to three feet above the surface, adding a natural touch to ponds. Water Willow is a graceful perennial with subtle beauty, returning year after year. Being native makes it easy to care for and low-maintenance, making it a great choice for adding height and texture without being too demanding.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Grows one to three feet above water.
Perennial, so it comes back every year.
Native, so it’s easy to care for.
It’s a great way to add some natural charm to your pond without a lot of fuss. Plus, the wildflower look is always a nice touch. I’d say give it a shot if you’re looking for something easy and pretty.
White Hibiscus, native to the Midwest and South, are hardy hibiscus that can withstand colder temperatures and wetter conditions. They are easy to care for and add color and texture to ponds, creating an oasis for local wildlife. However, they require 6 hours of sunlight to bloom, and they get quite tall. It will take a few years to develop more spread. White Hibiscus can also be used as a pond plant to filter the pond, providing a refreshing change from the tropical, beachy hibiscus.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Full sun is a must.
They get quite tall over time.
Prepare for some serious beauty.
Honestly, if you’re looking for a way to add some drama and interest to your pond, you really can’t go wrong with White Hibiscus. They’re easy to care for, they look amazing, and they’re a total conversation starter. What’s not to love?
Azolla, also known as Mosquito Fern, is a floating fern native to the West of the Mississippi River. It adds a green living carpet to the water surface, providing visual interest and ecological balance to your pond. Azolla acts as a natural water purifier, working to keep your pond healthy. Azolla can be a fantastic addition to your pond, providing a healthy and visually appealing addition to your watershed.
Here’s why you should consider it:
It provides shade, which helps to keep the water cooler and reduces algae growth.
It’s a natural fertilizer, adding nitrogen to the water as it decomposes.
It offers a hiding place for small fish and other aquatic critters.
It’s a nutritious snack for wildlife – fish, ducks, turtles and other pond creatures love to eat it.
Cardinal Flower, also known as Lobelia cardinalis, is a stunning native plant that brings brilliant red color to pond edges. This showy species has a wide distribution throughout the eastern US and is recognized for its extremely showy blossoms that can be seen at considerable distance. This low-growing perennial can be planted at the pond’s edge where it thrives in consistently moist conditions.
Cardinal Flower is a must-have for hummingbird enthusiasts, providing an essential nectar source during peak migration periods. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies making it a welcome addition to a pollinator garden. The plant blooms from mid-summer through fall, providing late-season color when many other plants are fading.
Here’s why you might want to consider it:
It thrives in shallow water or consistently moist soil.
It combines well with taller plants for a layered look.
Its brilliant red flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies.
Cardinal Flower is perfect for adding vibrant red color to your pond’s edge. This species occurs naturally at edges of ponds, creeks, and borders of marshes, making it an ideal choice for natural pond landscaping. The striking red blooms create a dramatic focal point that complements other pond plants beautifully.
It’s smart to choose plants that are native to the area. Because they blend in so well with the surroundings around them, it is easier for the caregiver to keep the pond healthy overall. People also bring in a lot of interesting creatures. It might be worth thinking about the idea of a pond that is not only pretty but also good for the environment. This kind of arrangement is good for all sides. If they want to see their pond come to life, they should go ahead and pick some of these lovely plants.
Big changes are coming: Chalily is leaping to a new location for the 2026 pond season!
We know we’ve kept you waiting for details, and we’re finally ready to share the news… but first, a reminder: we’re still open at 14430 Manchester Road through the end of the 2025 season!!
There’s plenty of time to shop plants, stock up on essentials and take advantage of great deals:
Fountains and yard art are 50% off in July and 60% in August!
One last GLOW Before We Go: Celebrate night-blooming lilies at our annual late-night sale on July 12th from 9pm-1am. The later you stay, the more you save!
Our new pad is located in Wildwood, Missouri, just 11 miles west of our current location!
Chalily is moving to the former Fahr Greenhouse property on Saint Albans Road. While it hasn’t operated as a nursery in a few years, we’re excited to bring the space back to life with a splash!
💻❗Ordering online? Nothing’s changing there. Our website will keep running as usual. Same great selection, same quick shipping, no interruptions.
Here’s a peek at what’s coming:
🌿 A Space Rooted in Horticultural History Our new home is the former Fahr Greenhouse, a family-owned business that operated for 70+ years. We’re excited to bring new energy to a space with a legacy for quality and service.
🚛 More Room, Less Hauling When we opened in 2011, we grew plants on-site. Now, they’re trucked in weekly from our greenhouses (by Joe!). More space means a wider selection all season long.
💜 Same Expertise, Same Heart Our hands-on help, pond advice and friendly service aren’t going anywhere. We’re here to help your water garden thrive and our new location gives us even more room to support your success.
📬 Stay Updated Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest updates and sneak peeks as we prepare our new location to open in early 2026.
We’re so excited about this next chapter, and so grateful for your continued support. 🐸 In the meantime, hop in before the season ends, we’d love to see you!
