🔥 Nymphaea zenkeri Red (Red Tiger Lotus)
Create a breathtaking focal point in your aquarium with the spectacular Nymphaea zenkeri Red, commonly known as the Red Tiger Lotus. Renowned for its striking deep red to burgundy leaves, often decorated with darker spotting, this beautiful bulb plant brings dramatic colour and elegance to any aquascape.
Whether grown as a compact midground feature or allowed to develop floating leaves on the surface, the Red Tiger Lotus provides a stunning display that instantly draws attention. Its rapid growth and vibrant colours make it one of the most popular feature plants in the planted aquarium hobby.
🌿 Why Choose Nymphaea zenkeri Red?
❤️ Vibrant red and burgundy foliage creates a stunning focal point
🍃 Beautiful patterned leaves with unique markings
🌱 Can be grown compact or allowed to produce floating leaves
💧 Fast-growing and highly rewarding to cultivate
🐠 Provides shade, shelter, and natural cover for fish
⭐ One of the most eye-catching plants available for aquascaping
As it matures, Nymphaea zenkeri Red develops large, graceful leaves that create a dramatic contrast against green aquarium plants, adding depth and visual interest to the aquarium.
📏 Care Requirements
🧬 Scientific Name: Nymphaea zenkeri 'Red'
📛 Common Name: Red Tiger Lotus
🏠 Tank Placement: Midground to background
🌡️ Temperature: 22–28°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.5
💡 Lighting: Medium to high
🧪 Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
🧘 Difficulty: Easy
Nymphaea zenkeri Red grows from a bulb and thrives in nutrient-rich substrates. Strong lighting and regular nutrient supplementation will encourage richer coloration and vigorous growth. Trimming surface-bound leaves can help maintain a compact underwater form if desired.
🐠 Compatibility
Ideal for community aquariums and planted displays. It is compatible with tetras, rasboras, angelfish, gouramis, Corydoras, shrimp, and most peaceful freshwater species. Its broad leaves provide excellent shelter and shaded areas for aquarium inhabitants.
Important Notes
The bulb should only be partially buried in the substrate, leaving the top exposed to prevent rotting. Under favourable conditions, the plant may send leaves to the water surface and occasionally produce attractive floating foliage. Regular pruning allows aquarists to control its size and shape.
Nymphaea zenkeri Red is a fantastic choice for UK aquarists looking for a bold, colourful centrepiece plant that delivers stunning red tones, graceful growth, and a truly impressive presence in any freshwater aquarium.
