Cultivated for over 3,000 years, the water lily’s scientific name is “Nymphaea” from the Greek word “nymph”. Nymph is a feminine diety which is the personification of nature. The water lily has played significant roles in various cultures across the globe since antiquity. In Buddhism enlightenment is associated with this flower. In Hinduism the water lily represents resurrection, as the bloom closes at night and blossoms with the first ray of the sun. In Western cultures it is often thought to be symbolic of eloquence or gracefulness.
No matter the meaning, it is a treat to have it in our pond. Dragonflies like it too! You can see one in this photo to the left of the lily.
