Almost Black Water Lily

Almost Black Hardy Water Lily – The Deepest Red of All

The Almost Black Hardy Water Lily is a breathtaking, richly colored lily that adds drama and sophistication to any pond or water garden. With its dark, velvety red blooms that deepen to near-black at the center, this variety is one of the most striking hardy waterlilies ever developed.

Each flower rises gracefully above the water’s surface on strong stems, its glowing amber stamens surrounded by layers of crimson-black petals. Paired with deep green pads, the contrast is simply mesmerizing. A medium-to-large hardy variety, Almost Black is as easy to grow as it is beautiful — making it an ideal choice for both collectors and first-time pond gardeners who want a showstopping focal point.

Planting & Care Instructions

• Plant Size: Medium-to-large hardy waterlily

• Spread: 4–6 feet across when mature

• Container Size: 14–18 inch wide aquatic fabric container, or plant directly into a natural pond shelf

• Planting Depth (from soil to water surface): 6–18 inches for optimal flowering; tolerates up to 24 inches in full sun

• Soil: Use heavy loam topsoil or PondGro Aquatic Loam Soil. Avoid bagged compost, peat, aquatic media, or stones, which float or rot underwater.

• Sunlight Needs: Full sun — at least 6+ hours of strong, direct light daily

• Water Conditions: Prefers still or gently moving water; avoid aeration or fountains that splash onto pads.

Fertilizing Schedule

• Fertilize on the 1st and 15th of each month during the growing season (May–September).

• Insert 4–6 Waterlily World Fertilizer Tablets 3–4 inches deep around the rhizome crown.

• Consistent fertilization ensures strong blooming, vivid color, and vigorous growth.

Fragrance

The Almost Black Hardy Water Lily has a light, clean fragrance that complements its bold appearance. Its subtle scent adds a touch of serenity to the pond while letting the deep blooms take center stage.

Water Lily Planting Tips

💡 Plant shallower (6–10 inches deep) for deeper flower color and faster establishment.
💡 Always keep the rhizome crown just above the soil line.
💡 Use wide, shallow containers for best root spread and bloom production.
💡 Avoid overcrowding — this variety thrives when given ample open surface space and full sunlight.

Do’s & Don’ts

Do

• Plant in full, direct sunlight to achieve the darkest red color.

• Use heavy loam soil for long-term root support.

• Fertilize twice monthly for constant blooming.

• Divide rhizomes every 2 years to maintain vigor and bloom count.

• Keep pads clean and open to full light exposure.

Don’t

• ❌ Don’t use bagged potting soils, composts, or stones — they cause poor growth.

• ❌ Don’t bury the rhizome crown below the soil.

• ❌ Don’t allow floating plants or other lilies to shade Almost Black’s pads.

• ❌ Don’t plant too deep (>24 inches) or blooming will slow down.

• ❌ Don’t let the rhizome dry out — plant immediately upon arrival.

Shipping Information

• Shipping Window: April through September across the USA

• Spring Schedule: Ships according to our posted planting calendar, timed for your region’s safe planting window (northern states ship later).

• Weekly Shipments: After spring, all hardy waterlilies are shipped weekly through summer, usually until or through September.

• Method: 2–3 day service (usually UPS); occasionally USPS or FedEx depending on region.

• Schedule: Shipments are sent early each week to prevent weekend delays.

• Tracking: You’ll receive an email with tracking details the day your order ships.

Arrival & Guarantee:

• Shipped as a live pond plant (rhizome with starter growth).

• Must be repotted immediately in heavy loam soil or planted directly into an earth-bottom pond upon arrival.

• Keep all parts — rhizome, crown, roots, and leaves — wet during unpacking and planting.

• Minor yellowing or leaf bending is normal and quickly replaced with new growth.

• For any concerns, email photos within 24 hours (unpacked plant + packing slip with initials) to PondQuestions@gmail.com.

Almost Black Hardy Water Lily – Specifications

About the Variety – Almost Black

The Almost Black Hardy Water Lily is one of the darkest red lilies ever developed — a variety prized by collectors and gardeners seeking depth and drama. Its rich, dark petals and glowing golden center create the illusion of a black flower under sunlight, making it a breathtaking centerpiece for medium and large ponds.

Despite its exotic look, Almost Black is a true hardy perennial that thrives in most climates. It’s easy to plant, low maintenance, and a heavy bloomer when properly fertilized — combining striking color with dependable performance.

Benefits of Almost Black Hardy Water Lily

• 🖤 Deepest red-to-black color of any hardy lily

• 🌿 Hardy and reliable — returns every spring, year after year

• 🌞 Thrives in full sun with minimal care

• 🌸 Steady bloomer all summer long

• 💧 Perfect pond centerpiece — dramatic color contrast and elegant form

Why Gardeners Love This Variety

Because Almost Black Hardy Water Lily turns every pond into a work of art. Its unique near-black petals and glowing centers make it one of the most visually arresting plants you can own. Easy to grow, perennial, and richly colored, it offers the luxury look of a tropical lily with the reliability of a hardy perennial.

This variety’s performance and beauty make it a must-have for anyone seeking something truly extraordinary for their pond.