Manee Red Hardy Water Lily – Brilliant True Red Blooms

The Manee Red Hardy Waterlily is one of the most stunning red perennial water lilies available today. Introduced in 2006 by acclaimed Thai hybridizer Pairat Songpanich, this variety has captivated growers worldwide. Unlike many “red” lilies that fade or lean toward orange, the Manee Red Hardy Water Lily stays drenched in an intense, ruby-red hue. Its cup-shaped blossoms measure 4.75–6 inches across on mature plants, standing proudly above 5-8-inch solid green pads.

This variety is medium-to-large in size and looks spectacular in medium and large ponds. While Manee Red Hardy Waterlily performs beautifully across most of the USA, it may “burn” slightly in extreme southern heat—but thrives vigorously in northern and temperate climates. A hardy perennial, it will return reliably each spring when planted properly.

Manee Red Hardy Water Lily Proper Planting and Care

• Planting Depth: 6–24 inches from soil surface to water surface; shallower depths (6–12 inches) encourage heavier blooming.

• Container Size: Wide pots 12–18 inches across; use fabric aquatic grow pots for best root development.

• Soil: Heavy loam garden soil only. Avoid bagged compost or potting mixes, which rot and float.

• Sunlight Needs: Minimum 6–7 hours of direct, unobstructed sunlight daily.

• Bloom Season: Late spring through early fall, with peak flowering in mid-summer.

Manee Red Hardy Water Lily Fertilizing Schedule

• Fertilize on the 1st and 15th of each month during the growing season (April–September).

• Use 4–5 Waterlily World Fertilizer Tabs, pressed 3–4 inches into the soil near the crown.

• Regular feeding ensures continuous brilliant blooms.

Do’s and Don’ts for Manee Red Hardy Water Lily

✅ Do’s

• Plant the Manee Red Hardy Waterlily in full sun for maximum color intensity.

• Use wide, shallow containers with heavy loam soil for best results.

• Divide rhizomes every 1–2 years to maintain vigor and blooming.

• Place lilies where they have open water space to spread leaves and flowers.

❌ Don’ts

• Do not let roots, stems, or leaves dry out during unpacking—plant immediately on arrival.

• Do not use stones, pea gravel, or bagged compost mixes. These suffocate crowns and rot in water.

• Do not allow floating plants or overcrowding from other lilies, which shade pads and reduce blooming.

• Do not place in deep shade—sunlight is critical for vibrant red flowers.

Shipping Information

• Hardy water lilies, including Manee Red, ship April through September across the USA.

• Orders placed early in spring are prioritized for April/May shipping.

• Plants are shipped 2–3 day service (usually UPS) at the beginning of each week.

• Customers receive an email with tracking details on the day of shipment.

• Please be prepared to plant immediately upon arrival. Yellowing leaves or minor damage in transit are normal and quickly replaced with new growth.