Nymphaea Tiger Lotus Red, commonly known as the Red Tiger Lotus, is a spectacular aquarium lily prized for its broad red to burgundy leaves, often decorated with darker mottling and spotting. Few aquarium plants can match the dramatic colour and leaf shape of a well-established Tiger Lotus.
Growing from a bulb, this plant initially produces submerged leaves before sending longer stems toward the water's surface. With regular pruning, it can be maintained as a beautiful submerged centerpiece, while allowing selected leaves to reach the surface creates the classic lily-pad appearance.
Red Tiger Lotus makes an outstanding focal point in medium to large planted aquariums. Its bold foliage provides excellent contrast against bright green stem plants, carpeting plants, and natural stone or driftwood.
Placement: Midground to background / centerpiece.
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting helps encourage stronger growth and richer coloration.
COâ‚‚: Optional, but supplemental COâ‚‚ can improve growth and overall plant development.
Fertilization: Tiger Lotus is a strong root feeder and benefits greatly from a nutrient-rich substrate or regular root tab supplementation.
Maintenance: Remove older leaves and prune long stems before they reach the surface if you prefer compact submerged growth.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Red Tiger Lotus / Tiger Lotus Red |
| Genus | Nymphaea |
| Plant Type | Aquatic Lily / Bulb Plant |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to Fast |
| Typical Height | 20–50+ cm (8–20+") depending on pruning and aquarium conditions |
| Placement | Midground / Background / Centerpiece |
| Lighting | Moderate to High |
| COâ‚‚ | Optional |
| Nutrient Demand | Moderate / Heavy Root Feeder |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
Red Tiger Lotus grows from a bulb and should be positioned in the aquarium substrate with care. Do not completely bury the bulb. Place it so that approximately one-half to two-thirds of the bulb remains exposed above the substrate while the developing roots are able to grow downward.
Once established, the plant develops an extensive root system and benefits considerably from nutrients available around the roots. A quality planted aquarium substrate or root tabs can help support vigorous growth and larger, more colourful foliage.
Because of its size and dramatic coloration, Red Tiger Lotus is best used as a feature or focal plant. Positioning it slightly off-centre among green plants can create a powerful visual focal point without overwhelming the rest of the aquascape.
Its broad leaves are particularly effective when contrasted with fine-textured stem plants, grass-like species, carpeting plants, and dark driftwood. Allow adequate open space around the plant so its distinctive leaf shape remains visible as it matures.
Available in Canada at Aquascaperoom — premium freshwater aquarium plants and professional aquascaping supplies.
