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As they become waterlogged, they sink into the mud to germinate.
The plant also spreads by sprouting from the creeping rhizomes.
The flat round leaves have a waxy water-repellent upper side.
The underside, however, seems to cling to the water by surface
tension. The underside, however, seems to cling to the water by
surface tension.
Some Water Lilies leaves are purple underneath,
the pigments helping to concentrate the sunlight to maximise
photosynthesis.
The leaf stem is hollow and transports air from the surface to the
underwater rhizomes which can grow to a massive size.Water Lilies
grow best in calm freshwater.
Uses: The American Indians made flour out of dried roots by pounding
them.The flour was then baked into pancakes.
The young leaves and flower buds were eaten as vegetables, seeds
eaten fried.
Traditional medicinal uses: American Indians used the plant to treat
many ailments.
Mashed green roots were used as poultice for swollen limbs;
the roots for problems of the womb, digestive problems,
a rinse for mouth sores; leaves and flowers as cooling compresses.
Role in the habitat: The Water Lily's leaves shade the water keeping
it cool
and thus allowing for more dissolved oxygen. |
