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The quiet beauty of a pond or lake is instantly enhanced by a water lily's rounded leaves and starry flowers floating placidly on the surface. These unique aquatic plants can bloom in a range of colors anytime from late spring through fall in most regions of the country. Their leaves can be cup-shaped, star-shaped, and smooth or jagged. And while water lilies may be most visible on the surface of still freshwater, they are rooted in the mud below, where they overwinter and regrow the following year. Here are a few more interesting facts about these amazing flowers that will likely surprise you.
1. There Are Many Water Lily Colors
When you imagine a water lily, you probably think of the classic white bloom bursting from a deep green lily pad. But water lilies actually grow in a rainbow of colors, including pink, red, orange, yellow, purple, and blue. Tropical varieties take on jewel tones (purple, orange, bright blue, and yellow), whereas hardier varieties lean toward a pastel palette. Sometimes the blossoms on hardy varieties change shades as they age. Even the leaf colors vary from deep green to rich burgundy. Water lilies aren't just a one-trick pretty pony; they have more tricks up their sleeves.
2. Water Lilies Help Their Environment
Although they're primarily known for their stunning appearance, water lilies are actually important players in the aquatic ecosystem. These plants are found in shallow and still fresh water, as in ponds, lakes, and the edges of slow-moving streams. Because they rest on the water's surface, the flowers and pads provide shade, keeping the water cooler and preventing algae that thrives in heat from growing in excess. Water lilies also shelter fish from predatory birds and the heat of the sun.
3. The Water Lily Is July's Birth Flower
Attention July birthdays: Water lily is your flower. (Along with larkspur.) It's no wonder these bright blooms are linked to July, because they're mainly a summer flower. Water lilies bloom from May through September, putting July smack in the middle of prime season. In frost-free regions, water lilies bloom year-round. But you have to be lucky to catch a bloom, as each individual flower lasts for about four days before sinking under the water to decompose. The beauty is short-lived, but that makes it even more special.
4. The Water Lily Has Numerous Varieties
Each variety of these stunners (there are over 50 species) is unique, whether it's the shape, size, color, fragrance, or blooming pattern. Water lilies inhabit ponds, lakes, and streams all over the world. The largest variety is fittingly called the giant water lily. Other names for this huge flower are the Amazon water lily and the royal water lily. This massive, magnificent flower can grow to a diameter of three to six feet and can support 66 pounds of weight. That means a young child could perch on a giant pad, no problem.
5. The Water Lily Is an Important Spiritual Symbol
Water lilies mean many things in different areas of the world, but they have special significance in Buddhism and Hinduism. For these religions, the water lily symbolizes resurrection, because these flowers close up at night and reopen in the morning, similar to a spiritual rebirth. Buddhists also believe that the water lily represents enlightenment because a beautiful bloom emerges from the dark mud.
6. The Water Lily Is a Star in the Art World
The impressionist painter Claude Monet often used water lilies as a subject. In fact, he painted more than 250 pieces that featured this aquatic plant, and several of them are among his most famous works of art.
In this photo, a typical street in Portugal is captured with colorful clothes hanging out to dry. The narrow street is lined with traditional Portuguese buildings with red-tiled roofs, white walls, and blue accents. The clotheslines are strung between the buildings, and the vibrant clothes create a beautiful contrast against the neutral-colored buildings. The photo captures a slice of everyday life in Portugal, where hanging clothes out to dry is still a common practice.
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photo rights reserved by Ben
Farmers in the Kazbegi region of Georgia lead a simple but hard life. The climate is harsh, with severe winters and short summers. The rocky soil and mountainous terrain make farming a challenge, so most farmers focus on livestock, especially sheep and cattle. They also grow cold-resistant crops such as potatoes and barley. The photo shows the ruins of stone huts, remnants of ancient shepherds’ shelters in the Kazbegi region. These simple structures, often built from local stone, provided shelter for herders as they herded their livestock in the vast mountain pastures. Their location in the rugged landscape, surrounded by imposing mountains, reflects the herders’ remote and self-sufficient lifestyle. In the summer, they moved their herds to higher grasslands, while these shelters served as temporary shelters from the cold and strong winds. Today, these ruins stand as silent witnesses to an age-old tradition that still lives on in the Kazbegi region, where herders and nomadic communities continue to tend their livestock in harmony with nature.
The ruins of stone huts in the Kazbegi region are the remains of ancient shepherds' huts, built from local stone. They served as shelters for shepherds tending their livestock in the mountain pastures. These simple structures reflect the remote and self-sufficient lifestyle that still persists in the region.
Boeren in de Kazbegi-regio in Georgië leiden een eenvoudig maar zwaar bestaan. Het klimaat is ruw, met strenge winters en korte zomers. Door de rotsachtige bodem en het bergachtige terrein is landbouw een uitdaging, waardoor de meeste boeren zich richten op veeteelt, met name schapen en koeien. Daarnaast verbouwen ze gewassen die bestand zijn tegen de kou, zoals aardappelen en gerst. De foto toont de ruïnes van stenen hutten, overblijfselen van oude herdersverblijven in de Kazbegi-regio. Deze eenvoudige bouwwerken, vaak opgetrokken uit lokaal gesteente, boden onderdak aan herders die hun vee hoedden in de uitgestrekte bergweiden. De ligging in het ruige landschap, omringd door imposante bergen, weerspiegelt de afgelegen en zelfvoorzienende levensstijl van de herders. In de zomer trokken zij met hun kuddes naar hoger gelegen graslanden, terwijl deze onderkomens dienden als tijdelijke schuilplaatsen tegen de kou en harde wind. Vandaag de dag zijn deze ruïnes stille getuigen van een eeuwenoude traditie die nog steeds voortleeft in de Kazbegi-regio, waar herders en nomadische gemeenschappen hun vee blijven hoeden in harmonie met de natuur.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Farmers in the Kazbegi region in Georgia lead a simple yet challenging life. The climate is harsh, with severe winters and short summers. Due to the rocky soil and mountainous terrain, agriculture is difficult, so most farmers focus on livestock breeding, mainly sheep and cattle. They also cultivate cold-resistant crops such as potatoes and barley. Many locals combine traditional farming with tourism. With the growing interest in the Kazbegi region, some farmers rent out rooms to travelers or sell local products such as honey, cheese, and handmade woolen clothing. Near the farmhouse, close to the village of Arsha, lies the Arsha Waterfall, about five kilometers from Stepantsminda Kazbegi. The hike to the waterfall is considered easy and typically takes three to four hours. The trail is unpaved but well-trodden, surrounded by lush meadows, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is one of the lesser-known natural attractions in the area, contributing to its untouched and serene atmosphere. A bit further lies the Toti Waterfall, accessible via a steep trail that passes above the Arsha Waterfall. This waterfall offers spectacular panoramic views and is an ideal spot for a picnic. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility, the breathtaking nature, and even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water. For adventure seekers, it is possible to continue the hike to the nearby Gergeti Glacier, making the journey a full-day excursion.
The image depicts a farmhouse in a mountainous landscape near the Arsha Waterfall, close to the town of Arsha in Georgia's Kazbegi region. This area is renowned for its rugged wilderness, towering mountains, and traditional villages.
Boeren in de Kazbegi-regio in Georgië leiden een eenvoudig maar zwaar bestaan. Het klimaat is ruw, met strenge winters en korte zomers. Door de rotsachtige bodem en het bergachtige terrein is landbouw uitdagend, waardoor de meeste boeren zich richten op veeteelt, zoals schapen en koeien. Daarnaast verbouwen ze gewassen die bestand zijn tegen de kou, zoals aardappelen en gerst. Veel inwoners combineren traditionele landbouw met toerisme. Door de toenemende interesse in het Kazbegi-gebied verhuren sommige boeren kamers aan reizigers of verkopen ze lokale producten zoals honing, kaas en handgemaakte wollen kleding. Vlak bij de boerderij, nabij het dorp Arsha, ligt de Arsha-waterval, op ongeveer vijf kilometer van Stepantsminda Kazbegi. De wandeling naar de waterval wordt als eenvoudig beschouwd en duurt doorgaans drie tot vier uur. Het pad is ongebaand maar goed begaanbaar, omringd door weelderige weiden en biedt prachtige uitzichten op de omliggende bergen. De waterval is een van de minder bekende natuurlijke attracties in het gebied, wat bijdraagt aan de ongerepte en serene sfeer. Nog iets verder ligt de Toti-waterval, bereikbaar via een steil pad dat bovenlangs de Arsha-waterval loopt. Deze waterval biedt spectaculaire panoramische uitzichten en is een ideale plek voor een picknick. Bezoekers kunnen hier genieten van de rust, de natuur en zelfs een verfrissende duik nemen in het heldere water. Voor avonturiers is het mogelijk om verder te trekken naar de nabijgelegen Gergeti-gletsjer, wat de wandeling tot een dagvullende activiteit maakt.
Explored May 5, 2021
Cows returning home from the pasture for evening milking. Each cow knows where it lives in the village and will walk through the gate left open for it.
Cut wild flowers on a table outside Brecon Oak's Log Cabin in Welsh woodland.
Blogging and Photography in Wales
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Currently enjoying some beautiful nature surrounding Brecon Oak's wonderful off-grid cabin in the woods, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales.
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In Transylvania after milking the cows morning and evening the milk is then taken to the central collection point.
...at the farm are such lovely people. they are all very warm and peaceful and you can just tell they love what they do. every time I go there, i am hesitant to leave.
When villagers take their product to the central collection point, the tank there is refrigerated and collected by truck daily. This provides milk, cheese and butter for the wider shop and supermarket food distribution system.
Many villagers have a single cow that they hand milk for family consumption but there are some that have small herds of 20-30 cows that produce milk as a business. The big difference today is that most villagers are not making cheese or butter for personal use and tend to buy this from shops like everyone else, probably to save time.
Lens: Minolta MC ROKKOR PG 1:1,4 50mm
The Crystal, a building that permanently hosts an exhibition on sustainable living, hosted by Siemens. It is the most sustainable building in London, generating its power from solar panels and geothermal pumps. The Emirates Cable Car runs in front of the building over the Royal Victoria Dock towards the O2 Arena.
In the tranquil waters of Lagos Yaguacaca, I had the pleasure of photographing the exquisite Purple Gallinule, Porphyrio martinica. This vibrant bird, a jewel of the wetlands, stood out with its brilliant blue and green plumage against the verdant backdrop of Leticia, Colombia. Its poised stance and the curious tilt of its head as it navigated the delicate branches was a testament to the graceful adaptability of these creatures.
The shot aims to capture not just the gallinule's striking coloration but also its natural behavior in the wild. The interplay of light and shadow highlights the textures of its feathers, while the contrasting yellow legs draw the eye, showcasing the bird’s adaptation to its marshy environment. As a photographer, my intention is to share these fleeting moments of natural wonder, hoping to inspire appreciation and a deeper connection with the avian world.
©2023 Adam Rainoff
About one year ago I published pictures of this MOC for the first time. My first modern home. Since then I've built many and it has become "my thing". A couple of days ago I looked at my old photos of Green Rock House and wasn't really satisfied with them. That is the reason I now publish some shots with better light setting.
#throwbackthursday #tbt
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Green Rock House - a build based on a vision of a sustainable and modern home close to nature.
Green Rock House is divided into three parts connected with hinges and technic pins. The roof of each floor can be taken off.
The house has full interior with a living room, kitchen, bedroom, music corner, bathroom and gym.
Dumfries, Scotland, UK.
I am currently working for the Countrywide Great Tour, a 64 day cycling challenge around the coastline of the entire UK. I will try and post daily photos as we travel. More information can be found below. This shot is from the eighth day in Dumfries in Scotland.
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The cherished customised Volkswagen van by Lucy & Yak who source and design the most organic and recycled fabrics for their clothes. Their mission is to prove that it’s possible to create great products, that give people joy, and are kinder to the planet:)
17 Miles of road across 15 boroughs shut to traffic for Car Free Day. It's rare to experience Tower Bridge like this, a reminder to us all of the importance of reducing pollution in our city.
©Kings Davis 2022
Please do not use or reproduce this image on Websites/Blog or
any other media without my explicit permission.
Exterior.
This house has a number of cuboid bodies linked together by a dark blue tiled hallway hosting a spiral staircase. Large glass windows offer a view of the ground floor and roof garden. Solar panels and home grown vegetables contribute to a sustainable way of living.
Lilium Eco House [WIP] is named after the lily flower. It is an eco-house with solar panels on the roof, large windows facing south and west, vegetables growing in the conservatory, high levels of insulation and daylight and material absorbing the warmth of the sun. Yet, it is a comfortable house with open social areas and modern design.
(EN) Blackspotted puffer - (FR) Poisson-ballon à taches noires
Arothron nigropunctatus subadult of the grey variant, Reunion Island
Am höchsten Punkt der Silvretta Hochalpenstraße liegt einer der beeindruckendsten Stauseen in den Tiroler Alpen. Seit 1954 öffentlich zugänglich, ist er DAS Lieblingsziel zahlreicher Urlauber. Durch drei Staumauern eingegrenzt, dient er bis heute der Stromgewinnung.
Lilium Eco House is a contemporary and sustainable home, that combines old and new ways of living. The house is named after the lily flower. It is meant to be an eco-house with solar panels on the roof, large windows facing south and west, vegetables growing in the conservatory and garden, high levels of insulation and daylight and materials absorbing the warmth of the sun.
Downstairs you find the combined kitchen and living room. The tiled dark tan floor and the conservatory/greenhouse almost give the room an outdoor feeling. Downstairs you also find a bathroom and a TV-hide-away behind the stairs. Upstairs you find a hobby room, a bedroom and a terrace.
The house is built on moduverse plates and once you´ve taken the roof off it can be cut in half showing the full interiors.
If you look closely you´ll see that I´ve been a bit cruel to both Star Wars and Minecraft figures...
Lilium Eco House [WIP] is named after the lily flower. It is an eco-house with solar panels on the roof, large windows facing south and west, vegetables growing in the conservatory, high levels of insulation and daylight and material absorbing the warmth of the sun. Yet, it is a comfortable house with open social areas and modern design.