Xia Fei (霞妃) - Hardy Water-lily with Jewel-Pink Blooms for Small to Medium Ponds (Peat-Free, Pesticide-Free; Non-Native Cultivar)

A vivid, free-flowering water-lily whose jewel-pink blooms shimmer like sunset light on calm water. Xia Fei (霞妃), meaning “Rosy Princess”, produces elegant, many-petalled flowers that open wide above mid-green pads from June to September.

Each bloom (8-12 cm across) is layered in bright rose-pink petals with a warm yellow centre, giving a lively contrast that brightens smaller ponds without overwhelming them. Its compact, rounded pads create just the right amount of shade for pond life while keeping reflections open.

Where it thrives
Light: Full sun (5 + hrs daily)
Water/Depth: Still water; final depth 25 - 45 cm over the crown (begin shallower and lower gradually)
Setting: Small to medium ponds, half-barrels, or quiet edges of larger ponds - pairs beautifully with oxygenators and marginals like Water Forget-me-not and Lesser Spearwort.

Planting & care

Stage the depth: start at 15–20 cm in spring, lower in steps as pads reach the surface until 25–45 cm.

Avoid fountains and pump outlets – lilies prefer quiet water for steady energy storage.

Remove yellowing pads and spent flowers through summer; divide every 3–5 years in spring if crowded.

No fertilisers, no pesticides - just sun, rainwater, and patience.

Truth-first wildlife note:
Pads provide vital cover for tadpoles, frogs, and newts; flowers draw pollen-seeking beetles and hoverflies on warm, still days. Pair with native marginals for year-round nectar support.

Joel says…

“Every pond needs a bit of theatre - and Xia Fei delivers it without the drama. Tough, tidy, and radiant; the Rosy Princess by name and nature.”

If you’re not sure which water lily is right for your setup, we’re happy to help - Joel offers free advice for all Wild Your Garden customers.