Crinum natans

The floating crinum (Crinum natans) is distributed in West Africa from the Democratic Republic of the Congo through Cameroon to Guinea, where it grows in fast-flowing rainforest waters, in shade as well as sun.¹ A nearly spherical bulb gives rise to dark green, ribbon-like leaves that reach 140 cm in length at a width of 2–5 cm; their margin is irregularly toothed and the blade usually strongly wavy.¹

The leaves should be allowed to float at the water surface, which only large aquariums permit; as in its natural habitat, it appreciates strong water movement, and the substrate should be coarse, nutrient-rich and at least 10 cm deep.¹ The white, fragrant flowers are borne up to five per stalk.¹ According to one hobbyist's report, they open one after another and each lasts two to three days.² Sowing is more productive than the occasional daughter bulbs, as the seeds germinate reliably.¹