Red Tiger Lotus

Red Tiger Lotus (Nymphaea zenkeri) is a bold and beautiful aquarium plant with broad, wavy leaves that range from deep red to mottled burgundy. It's a standout centerpiece plant, adding drama and contrast to any freshwater aquascape.

🌿 Overview

• Common Name: Red Tiger Lotus
• Scientific Name: Nymphaea zenkeri
• Type: Bulb Plant
• Origin: Africa (West Africa)
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Light Requirement: Medium to High
• CO₂ Requirement: Optional but improves color and growth

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to Medium
• Placement: Midground to Background
• Substrate: Nutrient-rich or supplemented with root tabs

🌱 Care Notes

• Bulb Planting: Do not bury the bulb—only the roots should be in the substrate. Let the bulb rest on the surface until roots develop.
• Leaves: Produces both submerged and floating leaves. Floating leaves can block light, so trim if needed.
• Trimming: Remove older leaves to keep the plant compact and bushy.
• Propagation: May split and produce daughter bulbs over time.

🌈 Color & Appearance

• Leaf color ranges from reddish-bronze to deep maroon with mottled or striped patterns.
• Under strong light and with CO₂, coloration intensifies.

🐠 Uses in Aquarium

• Stunning focal point in aquascapes
• Great for bettas and shy fish that appreciate floating leaf shade
• Contrasts beautifully with green background plants
• Can flower under optimal conditions