Common names

Swamp Lily, Water Poppy.

Scientific names

Ottelia ovalifolia.

Family

Hydrocharitaceae.

Genus

Ottelia.

Presence in Australia

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, SA, NT, WA.

Habitat

Slow-moving fresh water, or stationary water of ponds, dams and lagoons to about 1m deep. Often in water with high nutrient levels.

Habit

Tufted aquatic perennial herb with submerged and floating leaves and flowers.

Characteristics

Not known to be grazed by stock. Frost resistant.

Seed collection

Early Dec to late May. Immature fruit is withdrawn under water where it matures and produces numerous finely-hairy seeds, 2-3 mm long.

Propagation

From seed. Germinates readily on mud and in warm shallow water. Keep seedling leaves submerged.

Land protection

Useful for dams.

Ornamental

Attractive ornamental for garden ponds or aquariums.