large water lily crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "large water lily crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find the most accurate and common solutions to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "large water lily crossword clue" by Letter Count
8 Letters
VICTORIA: Refers to the genus Victoria, which includes the famous giant water lilies like Victoria amazonica, known for their enormous lily pads. Named after Queen Victoria, these plants are a marvel of the plant kingdom and a popular subject for crossword clues.
More About "large water lily crossword clue"
The clue "large water lily" almost exclusively points to the genus Victoria, particularly the species Victoria amazonica (formerly Victoria regia) and Victoria cruziana. These magnificent aquatic plants are native to the shallow waters of the Amazon River basin and other parts of South America. Their most striking feature is their colossal circular leaves, which can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in diameter and are strong enough to support the weight of a small child or even a lightweight adult.
Beyond their impressive size, Victoria water lilies are also known for their beautiful, fragrant flowers. These flowers bloom for only two nights, changing color from white on the first night to pink on the second, attracting pollinating beetles with their strong scent. Their unique life cycle and sheer scale make them a fascinating botanical subject and, consequently, a compelling and often-used term in crossword puzzles, appealing to solvers with an interest in nature and botany.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Specifics: For nature-based clues like "large water lily," consider if the clue points to a common name, a genus, or a specific species. In this case, "large" is a strong indicator for a distinct and well-known type.
- Cross-Reference with Letters: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting clues, use them to narrow down possibilities. For "VICTORIA," if you have a 'V' or 'T' already, it can significantly help.
- Consider Proper Nouns: Many unique plant or animal names, especially those named after people or places, are capitalized and can be key answers in crosswords. "Victoria" is a prime example.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading about diverse topics, including natural sciences, can build the knowledge base needed for various crossword clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Victoria water lily so large?
The Victoria water lily, particularly Victoria amazonica and Victoria cruziana, is known for its impressive size due to its rapid growth in nutrient-rich, warm tropical waters. Its large, circular pads, which can reach up to 3 meters (10 feet) in diameter, have a strong ribbed structure on the underside, allowing them to support significant weight.
Why is 'large water lily' a common crossword clue?
The 'large water lily' is a popular crossword clue because the genus 'VICTORIA' is a unique and easily recognizable botanical term associated with a specific, remarkable plant. Its distinct characteristics and historical naming make it a good fit for general knowledge and nature-themed puzzles.
Are there other types of large aquatic plants that could be crossword answers?
Yes, while 'VICTORIA' specifically refers to the giant water lily, other aquatic plants like 'LOTUS' (Nymphaea lotuses or Nelumbo nucifera) are also large and often appear in crosswords. However, 'LOTUS' typically refers to a different genus and may be clued differently, focusing on its spiritual significance or flower appearance rather than the 'large' aspect of its pads.