Flora

European white water lily or white nenuphar (Nymphaea alba L.) and Yellow water lily or Brandy-Bottle (Nymphaea lutea) are perennial plants from the nenuphar family (Nymphaeaceae). The Latin name Nymphaea comes from the Greek word nymphe (nymph) and is connected to the legend of the nymph that fell in love with Hercules. Because her love was not returned she transformed into a flower that turned towards the sun every morning and awaited his return. The second part of the name alba symbolizes the white color and lutea for the yellow color.

Nenuphars prevail in the larger part of Europe, in the Middle East and North Africa. Their habitat are still waters, shallow lakes, swamps, ponds and slow river effluents. Their large circular skin-like leaves and flowers flow on water surfaces, while the root of the water lily is located in the mud. Petals of the white water lily are of 10 - 12 cm in diameter, and of the yellow are of 4 - 5 cm. The underground root contains around 20% of starch and can be eaten cooked and baked or dried, grinded and added to flour. The seeds can be eaten roasted, and can substitute coffee. Parts of this plant cannot be devoured because of its poisonous active alkaloids.

The European white water lily and Yellow water lily belong to an endangered plant sort because of the continuous devastation of their natural habitat and are located on the Flora Red list of the Federation of B&H.