Victoria amazonica or the Giant Waterlilly is the largest waterlilly in the world, with leaves up to 3 metres in diameter that float on the water surface.
Each leaf has an upturned rim and is anchored by long stalks that grow up from an underground stem that is buried in the mud of the water course or container that it lives in.
The leaf surface has a rather quilted look to it and is quite waxy to help repel water.
On the undersides of the leaves is a network of ribs and cavities that provide the leaf with strength as well as trapping air to keep it bouyant - being able to support up to 45kgs when mature.
As amazing as the leave are, this plant is also attractive for the beautiful flowers it produces that are around 40cms in diameter and initially white but turn to pink after around 24 hours. They only live for 48 hours in total but also emit a wonderful pineappley fragrance as well.
The conundrum for prospective cultivators though is 'where on earth can you grow them?' with the answer being only in very large ponds or lakes in rather warm climates (or hothouses).