Murasaki Shikibu (Black Beauty) Tropical Water Lily

The Murasaki Shikibu Water Lily, also known as Black Beauty, is a rare Taiwanese bowl water lily that delivers dazzling charm in a compact package. Perfect for container gardens, whiskey barrel liners, small ponds, and petite water features, this enchanting tropical variety produces vibrant purple blossoms with a graceful, exotic look. Flowers measure 1.5 to 3.5 inches across, growing larger as the plant matures, and appear in abundance throughout the summer. With its modest 3-foot spread, this tropical gem is ideal for gardeners who want the beauty of tropical water lilies without the need for a large pond.

Murasaki Shikibu Water Lily thrives when planted in an 8-inch fabric pond pot filled with heavy loam soil, set at a depth of 4–12 inches beneath the water’s surface. To achieve its best blooms, give it full sun—at least 6 hours daily. Fertilize with two Waterlily World Fertilizer Tablets on the 1st and 15th of each month during the growing season. Shade or indoor growth will prevent blooming, so keep this beauty outdoors where sunlight can reach it. Offered as a live pond plant during spring and summer, it’s a wonderful way to bring Far Eastern elegance into even the smallest water garden.

✅ Do’s & ❌ Don’ts for Murasaki Shikibu Water Lily

Do’s
✅ Use an 8-inch shallow fabric pond pot
✅ Plant in heavy loam soil, topped with clean sand Never pea gravel
✅ Fertilize with 2 tablets twice monthly (1st and 15th)
✅ Place in full sun (6+ hours daily)
✅ Keep water depth 4–12 inches over the crown

Don’ts
❌ Don’t use bagged potting soil (compost will rot underwater)
❌ Don’t grow indoors or in shade (no blooms without sun)
❌ Don’t skip feeding—nutrients are essential for continuous flowering
❌ Don’t overcrowd—give each plant its needed 3 feet of space

📦 Seasonal Shipping Information for Tropical Water Lilies

Tropical water lilies are often ready a few weeks later than other pond plants in spring. They typically ship between May and August/September when conditions are warm enough for healthy growth.

• If your order includes a tropical water lily, even if you live in the South, the entire order will be held until the tropical is available.

• If you want to receive other pond plants sooner, please place two separate orders.

• For northern regions, tropical water lilies generally become available right around the time it’s safe to ship pond plants to your area.