OtterKnow Kids Encyclopedia

Water lilies have beautiful flowers that float on the surface of ponds, lakes, and quiet streams! They come in many colors like white, pink, yellow, red, and purple. Water lilies are one of the oldest flowering plants on Earth and have been growing for over 130 million years.

Water lilies grow from thick roots buried deep in the muddy bottom of a pond. Their long, flexible stems stretch up to the surface so the leaves and flowers can soak up sunlight. The large, round lily pads are waterproof, so rain and splashing water just slide right off.