Nymphaeinae

Nymphaeinae is a subfamily of plants within the family Nymphaeaceae, commonly known as water lilies. This subfamily includes the most familiar and widely recognized water lily species. Plants in Nymphaeinae are perennial aquatic herbs that grow in still or slow-moving freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. They are characterized by their large, floating, rounded or heart-shaped leaves, called lily pads, which emerge from underwater rhizomes. The leaves are attached to the rhizome by long petioles, allowing them to float on the water's surface.

The flowers of Nymphaeinae are typically showy and solitary, borne on long stalks that arise from the rhizome. They often float on the water or are held slightly above it. Flower colors vary widely, including white, pink, yellow, and blue, and many species are fragrant. The flowers typically have numerous petals and sepals. The fruit is usually berry-like and matures underwater, sinking beneath the surface after pollination. Nymphaeinae are distributed globally in temperate and tropical regions. They are important ecologically, providing habitat and food for aquatic animals, and are also popular ornamental plants in water gardens.