Description
Tiger Lotus Red (Nymphaea zenkeri) is the drama queen of planted tanks—in the best way possible. With broad, reddish leaves marbled in darker stripes and occasional surface-reaching lily pads, this plant steals the spotlight. It grows from a bulb and can be trimmed to stay bushy or encouraged to send floating leaves upward for a wild, jungle look.
A fast grower under high light, the Tiger Lotus adds depth, bold color, and a bit of theatrical flair to your aquascape. Perfect for centerpieces or background accents in larger tanks.
Care and Planting Directions
Plant the bulb halfway into nutrient-rich substrate—don’t bury it completely. Provide medium to high light to encourage red coloration, and trim surface leaves to keep growth compact if desired. CO₂ and root tabs will boost color and speed, but aren’t strictly necessary. It’s a low-maintenance beauty once established.
Specs
Name: Nymphaea zenkeri
Common Name: Tiger Lotus Red
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Light: Medium to High
CO₂: Not required (Optional for color and growth)
Height: 8–20 inches
Substrate: Required (plant bulb halfway into substrate)
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Propagation: Bulb division / Offshoots
Aquarium Placement: Midground / Background
