Rhonda Kay Tropical Water Lily

The Rhonda Kay Water Lily is a spectacular tropical hybrid, created by renowned hybridizer Ken Landon, Director of the International Water Garden Collection in San Angelo, Texas. Known for its intense, deep-purple stellate blooms, Rhonda Kay stands proudly 6–12 inches above the water’s surface, rising above lush green pads for a breathtaking display. A heavy bloomer, this tropical favorite features a medium to large spread of 5–8 feet, producing flowers throughout the growing season.

Perfect for large ponds or water gardens, where its bold color can be appreciated, the Rhonda Kay Tropical Water Lily combines vigorous growth with rich, jewel-toned blossoms that quickly make it a centerpiece of any pond plant collection. Its reliable blooming and dazzling purple tones make it one of the most admired tropical water lilies in circulation today.

🌱 Planting & Care Instructions

• Rhonda Kay Water Lily Size: Medium-Large

• Rhonda Kay Water Lily Spread: 5–8 feet

• Rhonda Kay Water Lily Container Size: Large (3–7 gallon fabric pond pot recommended)

• Rhonda Kay Water Lily Depth: Best blooming at 6–16 inches below the water surface; can tolerate up to 24–30 inches, though blooming decreases at deeper levels

• Rhonda Kay Water Lily Soil: Heavy loam only (avoid bagged composted mixes, which rot underwater)

• Fertilizing Rhonda Kay Water Lily: Every 3 weeks with Waterlily World Pond Tabs (3–5 tablets per feeding) 

• Fragrance: Lightly sweet scent

• Winter Hardiness: Zones 9–12 (annual in colder regions)

💡 PondMegastore Tip: Rhonda Kay responds beautifully to consistent feeding—keep it in full sun and it will reward you with nonstop, show-quality blooms.

✅ Do’s & ❌ Don’ts for Rhonda Kay Water Lily

Do’s
✅ Use a large 3–7 gallon fabric pond pot for best results
✅ Plant in heavy loam soil for stability and nutrients
✅ Keep water depth 6–16 inches over the crown for maximum blooming
✅ Fertilize every 3 weeks with tablets or use Landon’s slow-release formula
✅ Place in full sun (6+ hours daily)

Don’ts
❌ Don’t use bagged potting soil (compost = rot underwater)
❌ Don’t bury the growing point—keep it exposed to sunlight
❌ Don’t add stone or gravel on top of soil—this often causes plant mortality
❌ Don’t underfeed—Rhonda Kay is a heavy feeder and needs nutrients to bloom heavily
❌ Don’t expect flowering in shade—direct sunlight is essential

📦 Seasonal Shipping Information for Tropical Water Lilies

Tropical water lilies are often ready a few weeks later than other pond plants in spring. They typically ship between May and August/September when conditions are warm enough for healthy growth.

• If your order includes a tropical water lily, even if you live in the South, the entire order will be held until the tropical is available.

• If you want to receive other pond plants sooner, please place two separate orders.

• For northern regions, tropical water lilies generally become available right around the time it’s safe to ship pond plants to your area.