Water Lilies (or Lotus flowers) and Lily Pads may be a bit out of context for my usual seasonal photos array. However, visits to Botanic gardens in Denver and Albuquerque presented themselves with these beauties. As such, I felt compelled to pay homage to floating flora.
I find it fascinating that from a dark, shallow pond bright green lily pads with their floating flowers can emerge each year. I did a google search for some background info on them – the results being:
“Water lily is a family of about 60 species in 4 genera of freshwater flowering plants (order Nymphaeales) native to the temperate and tropical parts of the world.”
Water lilies provide food for fish and wildlife as well as shade and protection from predators such as birds. They are good for the environment but can sometimes cause drainage problems because of their rapid growth.
Star-like Flowers and Round Flat Leaves
Lily pads with their round, predominately green leaves, bob gently on the surface of freshwater ponds and lakes. Their star-like flowers with bright yellow centers actually come in an array of colors. Many of us have likely seen the typical, yellow, white and shades of pink flowers. But I have also seen them in bright violet and the deep crimson color of these Black Princess water lilies in the photo below. (Not the best photo as it was taken with my phone.)
In addition to an array of flower colors, there are also colorful lily pads themselves. The variegated lily pads with their unique patterns and textures stand out as the float in the dark pond waters.
Having a Spiritual Significance
Also known as a Lotus flower, a water lily has a Spiritual significance:
“Water lilies mean many things in different areas of the world, but they have special significance in Buddhism and Hinduism. For these religions, the water lily symbolizes resurrection, because these flowers close up at night and reopen in the morning, similar to a spiritual rebirth. Buddhists also believe that the water lily represents enlightenment because a beautiful bloom emerges from the dark mud.”
Quoted from article: 6 Water Lily Facts That Will Make You Love Them Even More
Evoking a Feeling of Stillness and Calm
For me observing water lilies evokes a sense of peace and calm. There is something serene they coney in their still presence. Even in the darkness of muddy waters Nature brings forth beauty in these floating flowers.
Several of the photos were taken with my old digital camera – so not the best in quality – but still worthy to include in the post. Admittedly photographing them has almost landed me in the very pond waters where they reside. There is that temptation to get a closer shot – especially when I see bees buzzing around on the flowers!
Note to self for future reference: bring my other camera lens! 🙂