Which pink-flowered water lily is native to the Amazon Basin?

Victoria amazonica is the pink-flowered water lily native to the Amazon Basin.

This giant water lily is famous for its enormous circular leaves, which float on calm or slow-moving waters. The leaves have upturned edges and strong ribbing beneath them, adaptations that help support their broad surfaces above the water.

The species was first described scientifically as Victoria regia in the nineteenth century, in honour of Queen Victoria. Its current name, Victoria amazonica, reflects its Amazonian origin and its accepted scientific classification. The plant produces large flowers that change colour as they mature and are associated with beetle pollination.

Another common mix-up is confusing this species with lotus plants. Lotus leaves and flowers belong to a different genus and family. Victoria amazonica is especially associated with oxbow lakes, ponds, and quiet backwaters rather than the fast central channels of large rivers.