Imposing and ephemeral. 

Blooms last no more than three days.  Buried rhizomes persist for years and are edible along with the seeds. Careful, don’t confuse this flower for other water lovers like lilies which may be toxic.

These are just a few images from one of my favorite spots. I found it first with my dad when I was a little girl and continue to visit each year. The pond is fishless, allowing for a nice diversity of amphibians that I have also photographed. In warm months the scenery is jungle-lush with creatures constantly plotting into the water to escape hikers.   Learn more here.

My secret spot in mid Missouri, 2012.