(Nymphaea odorata) emerges from a buried rhizome. Durable round stalks grow up from the rhizome. This perennial herb supports large round leaves (4-10 inches) wide that float at the water’s surface. By mid-summer showy white flowers float at the water’s surface. Lilies serve as important fish cover, especially for largemouth bass. White water lily seeds, rhizomes, flowers, and leaves are consumed by many wildlife species. White water lilies also prevent shoreline erosion by slowing wave action.