# 4964-67 - 2015 First-Class Forever Stamp - Water Lilies

The Water Lily stamps pictures four different colors of lilies popular in garden ponds.

Water lilies are a delight to see in a garden pond. With over 50 species and many more hybrids, they bloom in a variety of colorful shades. And though these lilies seem delicate as they float on the surface of the water, they are hardy plants that can thrive in a wide range of climates.

 

Because the leaves and flowers of a water lily are seen on the top of a pond, it appears the whole plant floats. In fact, under its broad round leaves a long, sturdy stalk extends to the soil beneath. The plant’s rhizome (root system) is anchored securely to the bottom of the pond.

 

Water lilies are not only enjoyable to look at and smell, but also provide a home for insects and their larvae. These, in turn, provide food for fish, amphibians, and other animals that live in the water. In addition, mammals such as deer and beaver eat the lily’s leaves and rhizomes.

 

Most varieties of water lily can only be enjoyed during the day. As the sun rises, the bloom opens. By early afternoon, the flower closes for the night. But other lilies open as the sun goes down and remain so until late morning. 

 

Water lilies bring color and nourishment to small ponds and shallow lakes. They bring joy to observers and feed wildlife at the same time.

 

49¢ Water Lilies: First-class mail rate

Issue Date: March 20, 2015

City: Cleveland, OH, at the Garfield-Perry March Party 2015 Stamp Show

Quantity: 500 million stamps

Category: Definitive

Printed By: Banknote Corporation of America for Sennett Security Products

Printing Method: Lithographed in sheets of 240, with 12 booklet panes of 20 per sheet

Perforations: Serpentine Die Cut 11 X 11 1/4

The photos of the water lilies were taken by Cindy Dyer at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens in Washington, D.C. She also photographed the ferns used on coil stamps first issued in 2014. (U.S. #4848-52)