One of the natural sights to behold is the beautiful Amazonian Lily Pond at the entrance of Penang Botanic Gardens.
Nestled in the heart of Penang’s natural splendor is an enchanting oasis that beckons local nature enthusiasts and curious visitors.
Welcome to the Lily Pond at the Penang Botanic Gardens, a sanctuary that houses the mesmerizing Amazonian Lily pads.
Join us on a journey through this captivating botanical wonderland, where history, beauty, and serenity intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.
The Amazonian Lily pads that grace this tranquil pond have thrived.
You will see the lotus blossom beautifully, casting a spell that enchants all who see them.
As custodians of these splendid plants, the Penang Botanic Gardens proudly uphold a heritage dating back to the early 1800s.
Penang Botanic Gardens Amazonian Lily Pond
Giant Waterlily – Victoria amazonica
The Victoria amazonica, scientifically known as the Giant Water Lily, is the world’s largest and most resilient plant species.
Its presence here adds enchantment to Penang Botanic Gardens.
The giant Amazonian water lily has captivated scientists, architects, and artists with its immense beauty and size.
Deep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, the Victoria Amazonica reigns supreme.
An Amazonian water lily’s leaf looks like a dinner plate with a raised rim.
These remarkable lilies boast enormous, circular leaves with upturned edges that can reach an astounding diameter of 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) and are sturdy enough to bear the weight of a small child!
In addition to other adaptations, water lilies have large leaves that float on the water’s surface to catch enough sunlight for photosynthesis.
A cuticle is present to keep the top side of the leaf as dry as possible.
While the underside is covered in thorns to deter predators.
The intricate network of branching, girder-like veins in these colossal leaves is optimized for strength and structural support, potentially inspiring advancements in engineering and design, especially for floating structures.
Its power comes from a source that can only be seen from below.
Penang Botanic Gardens workers removing old leaves from the lily pond. Image: Source
These magnificent lilies are more than botanical giants; they are living legends with tales as immense as their colossal leaves.
In the Amazon basin, these colossal leaves are anchored to submerged stems and supported by ribbed undersides.
They peacefully float, bearing witness to the captivating biodiversity of the region as they serenely drift atop the waters.
Myth of the Amazonian Lily
The world of giant water lilies reveals a captivating myth.
The Tupi people of Brazil revered these flowers for their unparalleled beauty.
Legend tells of a young girl’s love for the moon and stars, leading her to a mysterious fate.
As she leaned over the water’s edge, reaching for the moon’s reflection, she mysteriously vanished into its luminous embrace.
Dataran Teratai Amazonian Lily Pond
The Dataran Teratai is a captivating lily pond, a part of the garden’s (once controversial) beautification project.
A vibrant oasis marks the transition where the garden’s entrance meets the parking lot.
Dataran Teratai begins as a meticulously manicured lawn adorned with seven ponds and two fountains.
‘Dataran Teratai’ pays homage to the diverse water lilies and lotuses that grace its waters.
Its crowning glory is the Victoria Amazonica, affectionately known as the giant water lily.
These lilies can reach an impressive 3 meters (9.8 feet) in diameter in their natural habitat, although they typically grow to around a meter in most ponds.
More photos of the Amazonian Lily Pond can be found here.
A beautiful flower and a new Giant Waterlily – Victoria amazonica leaf with its underside covered in thorns to deter predators.
If you are planning a visit to the Penang Botanic Gardens, be sure to check out these notable attractions within the gardens:
- The Rain Tree
- Cannon Ball Tree
- Argus Pheasant Tree
- Candle Tree
- Ebony Tree
Come witness the wonder of the Penang Botanic Gardens and its captivating Amazonian Lily Pond.
From the awe-inspiring giant water lilies to the lush beauty of the gardens, a visit here promises a journey of enchantment and discovery.
Join Penangites in exploring the natural marvels in the beloved Penang Botanic Gardens.
Penang Botanic Gardens
Address: Kompleks Pentadbiran, Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Penang
Operating Days: Monday – Sunday
Operating Hours: 7.00 am – 7.00 pm
Tel: +604 226 4401
Entrance Fee: Free
Email: [email protected]
Website: Penang Botanic Gardens
