Is Ottelia ovalifolia (swamp lily) the most beautiful aquatic plant in SA?
A personal favourite of Water Sensitive SA, Principal Ecologist, Dr Kerri Muller — Ottelia ovalifolia is a species that is, unfortunately, becoming increasingly rare in its natural habitat. These photos, taken at Overland Corner on the River Murray, highlight its delicate nature. The floating fern Azolla filiculoides can also be seen, displaying its autumnal red colouring. While Ottelia ovalifolia is frequently specified in planting plans for constructed wetlands, Kerri has yet to encounter it thriving in any urban wetland environments.
Habitat needs: still or flowing freshwater up to 1m deep.
Identification notes: basal leaves on petioles up to 1m long, elliptical leaves (>16cm long) with parallel and interconnecting veins, white flowers with 3 petals (>6 cm across), after fertilisation the flower stalk bends into the water, seeds germinate in shallow water. Young plants have strappy leaves and can be confused with Vallisneria spp.
Conservation status: Rare, near threatened, found in all mainland States
Given their conservation status it is important that we care for them and only plant them in places we know they will grow. Please email Kerri( kerri@watersensitivesa.com ) if you know of this plant growing anywhere in SA – natural or constructed.