During my travel at Xieng Kuan in Vientianne, Laos, I couldn't help but take shots of such beautiful flowers. At first I was confused whether these flowers were Lotus or Lilies. After further investigation, I have concluded that these are Water Lilies.
Water Lilies are freshwater flowering plants that are native in tropical places like Laos, Vietnam or the Philippines but can also be found in cold temperature countries. Its mostly grown for ornamental use - an added beauty to ponds or water gardens because they come in many colors: pink, blue, purple, white or orange.
Scientific Name: Nymphaeacea which comes from the Greek word "Nymph".
Water lilies have about 70 known species. Its flowers are solitary and symmetrical with pointy petals. The flowers bloom on or above (6-8 inches) water surface however its heart-shaped leaves floats on the water surface. They are connected through its long stalks that are rooted on large rhizomes.
Water lilies are perfect plants for your water garden. They are very easy to grow as they do not need soil to grow. They provide food and shade for your fishes. They also help water be clean and aerated.
SYMBOLISM
Water lilies have been linked to many meaning and symbols throughout history in various religions and countries. In Egypt, water lilies were used as a symbol for unity. Blue water lilies were representation of the Sun and a symbol of rebirth. However in Asia, water lilies signifies as Universality.
In religions like Buddhism, water lilies together with the lotus flowers symbolizes enlightenment. In Hinduism, they signify resurrection because lilies close their petals at night and reopens during daytime.
Colored Water lilies also have meanings or representations. I'll just break it down to a word or two:
White lilies - Rebirth and Purity
Red Lilies - Passion and Love
Purple Lilies - Mystic Power and Royalty
Pink Lilies - Feminine Beauty
Orange Lilies - Confidence and joy
Blue Lilies - Knowledge
Yellow Lilies - Happiness
It's amazing how these flowers are just simple but very beautiful with those vibrant eye catching colors. Flowers always reminds me how beautiful the world is. What does flower mean to you? Let me know in the comments! Thank you for dropping by. Sending you love and light.
All photos taken using my Fujifilm X-A3.
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