Water poppy Plant Care

Water poppy (Burnatia enneandra) belongs to the Alismataceae family within the Burnatia genus. Water poppy is native to tropical and southern Africa from Senegal to Tanzania to South Africa. Water poppy is also known as Floating heart.

Water poppy displays an aquatic, floating plant growth habit, reaching up to tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Water poppy produces small white or yellow flowers held above the water.

Burnatia enneandra requires watering every 3–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Water poppy thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Burnatia enneandra grows best at temperatures of 70–85°F. Water poppy prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, loamy soil with good moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Water poppy to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Water poppy every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Can be left in water or repot annually in fresh soil. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Water poppy can be propagated through division of rhizomes, seeds.

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Water poppy is susceptible to aphids, snails, slugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Water poppy grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Water poppy is native to tropical and southern Africa from Senegal to Tanzania to South Africa. In cooler regions, grow Water poppy as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.