When researchers first brought the world’s largest waterlily species to the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew in London from South America in 1852 and described it scientifically, they named the genus Victoria in honor of Queen Victoria. At the time, scientists thought that the species that contained the largest waterlilies on Earth was Victoria amazonica. But now, 177 years later, a genetic analysis has revealed that the size crown actually belongs to a distinct species that diverged from its close cousin 1 million years ago. The species, now dubbed V. boliviana, was described last month in Frontiers in Plant Science. The pads on these lilies can grow 3.2 meters in diameter and are able to support the weight of an adult, though their spiny texture makes them a less than ideal seating option. The pink and white flowers bloom at night and are roughly 35 centimeters across.
Science Snapshot: Holily Molily
The largest waterlily species in the world was incorrectly classified for more than 170 years.
Written byLisa Winter
| 1 min read
Image credit:RBG Kew
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Lisa joined The Scientist in 2017. As social media editor, some of her duties include creating content, managing interactions, and developing strategies for the brand’s social media presence. She also contributes to the News & Opinion section of the website. Lisa holds a degree in Biological Sciences with a concentration in genetics, cell, and developmental biology from Arizona State University and has worked in science communication since 2012.
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