Nature's giant secret - 12th August 2022

After thorough research, experts have published their findings of a newly discovered giant waterlily species. This third species of giant waterlily had been mooted by experts, but its existence remained a mere hypothesis, until now. Botanists have formally identified the third giant waterlily species at London's Kew Gardens, where seeds donated by two Bolivian botanical gardens were sown.

The waterlily’s been classified, member of the Victoria genus, which includes the other two known varieties, Amazonica and Cruziana, hence it's been named Victoria Boliviana, indicating the seeds' origins.

The giant lily had been on display for over four years in the Kew Gardens' glasshouse without classification or label, as apprehensive scientists carried out DNA analysis, meticulously investigating and verifying the true identity of these botanical giants.

Horticulturist and expert in scientific and botanical research Carlos Magdalena finds it remarkable how much still lies waiting to be discovered.

Carlos Magdalena: "Taxonomists, we discover about 2,000 species every year. So, it is not rare to find a new species. What I think is very unusual is a plant the size with this level of fame to be discovered in, in the year 2022. That is quite unusual. It also highlights how many things could be out there, isn't it."

The Victoria Boliviana lily pads can span up to three metres, while its numerous giant seasonal blooms feature prickles. Each flower opens up in turn for only two nights at a time, transitioning from white into pink before dying.

The flowers captivated Kew’s resident botanic artist, Lucy Smith.

Lucy Smith: "When I was finally able to observe a fully open flower, that's when it really hit me and hit us that this was something completely different from the other species. It was a spectacular flower. It was one of the largest flowers I'd seen. And the colouring and the structures were very different from the other species."

Kew Gardens now boasts all three Victoria species growing side by side, making it a unique sight for visitors to witness.