Red Tiger Lotus is broadly distributed across tropical Africa, where it inhabits various bodies of water, including temporary pools and lakes, and flowing water. It has a bulb for storing nutrients and robust floating leaves. Its most attractive feature is the submersed juvenile leaves that do not reach the surface. Of the two colorways, this red variant is the more popular among aquarists; the green version is hard to find commercially. Tiger Lotus is generally undemanding. Older, larger leaves should always be removed at the base of the bulb.
Nymphaea lotus ‘Red Tiger Lotus’ is a popular, stunning tropical water lily native to Africa that serves as a dramatic centrepiece in freshwater aquariums. It is highly prized by aquarists for its large, arrow-shaped, deep reddish-brown leaves decorated with distinct, dark tiger-like mottling.
Essential Overview:
- Growth Type: Bulb plant
- Placement: Midground or background (can grow 20–80 cm tall)
- Care Level: Easy/Beginner-friendly
- Water Parameters: Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5
Key Care & Growth Requirements:
- Planting the Bulb: Push only 1/3 to 1/2 of the bulb into your substrate. Do not bury it completely, or the bulb will rot. Ensure the slightly pointed end faces upward.
- Nutrient Demands: This species is a heavy root feeder. It thrives best in a nutrient-rich substrate or when supplemented regularly with root tabs.
- Lighting & CO2: It handles low-tech setups well, but moderate to high lighting makes the red coloration and dark speckles significantly more vibrant. Supplementing CO2 is completely optional but accelerates growth.
- Pruning Strategy: It naturally shoots long stems toward the surface to form floating lily pads. If you want a compact, bushy underwater plant, you must prune these surface shoots off at the base of the bulb immediately. If allowed to reach the surface, the lily pads will shade out lower-dwelling plants.
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