Santa Cruz water-lily, Irupe
Victoria cruziana

Family: Nymphaeaceae

What it is like

A large water lily. The leaves can be 1-2 m across. The edges curve upwards 2-10 cm high. The flowers can be white or pink. They are 15-30 cm across. The seeds are 8-11 mm across.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows in water. It needs temperatures of 25°C or above to grow well but will continue to grow at 18°C. In Argentina it grows below 500 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, South America (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The seed are roasted and eaten.

Edible parts

Seeds, roots, rhizomes, stems

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. The seed is best stored under water.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Euryale cruziana Orb. ex Walp.; and others