Red Tiger Lotus – Nymphaea zenkeri
Red Tiger Lotus (Nymphaea zenkeri) is a striking freshwater aquarium plant known for its broad red, bronze, and green patterned leaves. This bulb-based plant can quickly become the centerpiece of a planted aquarium, adding rich color, flowing leaf shape, and dramatic contrast against green aquarium plants.
Originating from Africa, Red Tiger Lotus can be grown as a submerged aquarium plant or allowed to send leaves to the surface for a natural lily-like appearance. With good lighting, root nutrients, and regular trimming, it makes a beautiful focal point for freshwater community tanks and planted aquascapes.
Key Features
- Bold red, bronze, and green patterned leaves
- Excellent centerpiece plant for freshwater aquariums
- Grows from a bulb and is easy to plant
- Can grow submerged or send lily-like leaves to the surface
- Great for planted tanks and peaceful community aquariums
- Provides natural shade and structure in aquascapes
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Nymphaea zenkeri
- Common Name: Red Tiger Lotus
- Plant Type: Bulb aquarium plant
- Placement: Midground to background / centerpiece plant
- Lighting: Medium to high
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- CO2: Optional, but can encourage stronger growth and richer coloration
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs recommended
Planting Instructions
Do not bury the entire bulb. Place the bulb gently on top of the substrate or bury only the lower portion, leaving part of the bulb exposed. If the bulb is buried too deeply, it may rot.
Once new roots and leaves develop, the plant will anchor itself into the substrate. Root tabs can help support strong growth, especially in sand or plain gravel.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Red Tiger Lotus grows best with medium to high lighting. Stronger lighting can encourage more compact underwater growth and better coloration. CO2 is not required, but it can improve growth, leaf size, and overall plant health.
This plant is a heavy root feeder, so nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs are highly recommended for strong development and vibrant leaves.
Trimming & Maintenance
Red Tiger Lotus may send leaves to the surface as it matures. If you prefer compact underwater growth, trim surface-bound leaves near the base before they reach the top of the tank.
Regular trimming helps control size, prevents excessive shading, and encourages fuller submerged growth. Remove older or damaged leaves as needed during routine aquarium maintenance.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Centerpiece plant for planted aquariums
- Midground to background aquascapes
- Color contrast against green aquarium plants
- Peaceful community fish tanks
- Natural-style freshwater layouts
- Low-tech or high-tech planted tanks with root feeding
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Red Tiger Lotus good for beginners?
Yes. Red Tiger Lotus is fairly easy to grow when planted correctly and provided with decent lighting and root nutrients.
Will Red Tiger Lotus take over my aquarium?
It can grow quickly under strong lighting and nutrient-rich conditions. Regular trimming helps control its size and shape.
Does Red Tiger Lotus need CO2?
No. CO2 is not required, but it can encourage stronger growth, larger leaves, and richer coloration.
Should I bury the Red Tiger Lotus bulb?
Do not bury the entire bulb. Leave part of the bulb exposed above the substrate to help prevent rot.
Will Red Tiger Lotus grow leaves to the surface?
Yes. It may send lily-like leaves to the surface. Trimming those leaves can encourage more compact underwater growth.
Is Red Tiger Lotus safe for fish and shrimp?
Yes. Red Tiger Lotus is safe for peaceful freshwater fish, shrimp, and snails.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Red Tiger Lotus is a beautiful bulb plant for aquarists looking to add bold red and bronze color to a freshwater planted aquarium. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, and aquarium supplies.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Out of stock
Couldn't load pickup availability
Explore Related Aquarium Products: