Nuphar

Nuphar is a genus of aquatic flowering plants in the family Nymphaeaceae, commonly referred to as spatterdock or yellow water-lily. The genus includes several species native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Nuphar species are rhizomatous perennial aquatics. They typically grow rooted in the mud of shallow ponds, lakes, and slow-flowing rivers. Leaves are floating, rounded to reniform (kidney-shaped) with a distinct notch, and borne on long petioles. Flowers are solitary, on erect stalks above the leaves, and are usually bright yellow with many petals; they open during the day and have a cup-like profile. After pollination, the fruit forms a central cavity filled with numerous tiny seeds.

Taxonomy and species: The genus comprises several species; the best known is Nuphar lutea (yellow water-lily), native to Europe and Asia. In North America, related taxa such as Nuphar pumila (dwarf spatterdock) and Nuphar advena are recognized by some authorities. Taxonomic treatment varies, with some sources treating Nuphar as a subgenus of Nymphaea or subdividing into regional species. Common names include spatterdock and yellow-water-lily.

Ecology and uses: Nuphar species support aquatic ecosystems by providing shelter for invertebrates and foraging habitat for waterfowl. Pollination is primarily by beetles. The plants are used in water gardens and ponds for their ornamental foliage and flowers, though they can spread aggressively by rhizomes, forming dense stands that may crowd other aquatic vegetation.