Yellow plump

Yellow Plump | Native, Hardy, Low maintenance

Yellow plump (Nuphar lutea) is an impressive floating plant with large yellow flowers and sturdy leaves that cover the water surface. This plant is naturally common in Dutch lakes, wide ditches and estuaries. Its striking blooms and robust growth make it a valuable oxygen plant for large and deep ponds. Order easily via our partner: Ordering yellow plump at Pond Master

What is Yellow plump (Nuphar lutea)?

Yellow plump is a representative of the Nymphaeaceae family and develops through rhizomes, with leaves that partly float on the water and partly remain underwater. 

The species develops best in slow-flowing or stagnant water with soft, nutrient-rich soil. Typical sites are low moorlands, river banks, ponds and wide canals. The plant is completely indigenous and occurs almost everywhere in the Netherlands - with the exception of Zeeland, the Wadden Islands and parts of southern Limburg.

In spring, the first floating leaves appear, followed by the yellow flowers that rise above the water. The distinctive flowers emit a characteristic scent that serves to attract insects that help in reproduction. Underwater, transparent leaves provide additional oxygen production.

Characteristics and Growth Mode

  • Type: Rooted floating plant (hydrophyte)
  • Pitch: Full sun (for optimal growth and flowering, at least 6 hours of sunshine a day)
  • Planting depth: 50 to 200 cm (deeper in exceptional cases, but optimal growth up to 150 cm deep)
  • Leaves: Floating, heart-shaped, firm and leathery
  • Bloom: May to August, yellow flowers up to 5 cm in size
  • Height: In very deep waters, petioles can grow longer, but in most ponds the length is limited to 1 to 1.5 metres.
  • Hardy: Yes, via thick rhizomes

The rhizome grows horizontally across the soil and stores nutrients for several seasons. New leaves and flower stalks grow up from this rhizome every year. In autumn, the above-ground parts die off, after which the plant goes into dormancy.

Yellow plump in the Pond

Yellow plump is ideal for large, deep ponds that require oxygen plants that also provide shade and cover for fish. By tempering the light at the water surface, the large leaves help control algae growth. In addition, the flowers provide visual appeal in summer.

What is the ideal depth for Yellow Plump?
The ideal yellow plump depth lies between the 50 and 300 cm. In this depth zone, both floating leaves and flowers can develop well and the rhizome remains protected in the muddy pond bottom.

It is important to give Yellow Plump plenty of space. In small ponds, this plant can quickly become too dominant. In larger ponds, it grows into an impressive oxygen producer and biodiversity enhancer.

Note: Yellow plump can expand quickly and take up a lot of space. If necessary, use a pond basket to limit growth.

Good combinations:

Frequently asked questions about Yellow plump

How much Yellow Plump do I need?

For a pond of 1000 to 2000 litres, one plant is usually sufficient. In larger ponds, 2 to 3 plants are suitable. Calculate here how many oxygen plants you need in the pond.

How long will this plant last?

Yellow plump is perennial and can grow for years via the rhizome, provided the pond is deep enough and does not become completely overgrown.

Is Yellow plump hardy?

Yes, the plant overwinters in a dormant state via the rhizome under water.

Should I maintain the plant?

In large ponds, hardly any maintenance is required. In case of excessive growth, some leaves or flowers can be removed in autumn.

Does Yellow plump need nutrition?

Not necessary in a natural pond. The plant extracts nutrients from the water and soil.

Buy yellow plump?

bladderwort

Yellow Plump can be ordered through our sales partner Vijvermeester.nl.