Nymphaea rudgeana is a species of waterlily native to the region spanning from Mexico to tropical South America.

However, it also produces submerged leaves with entire margins, if it grows in flowing water.

[2] The adaxial leaf surface is shiny and light green with some red colouration in the centre and towards the edge.

The petiole is reddish-brown,[3] up to 9 or 11 mm wide, glabrous and has 2 primary, as well as 4 to numerous secondary air canals.

[6] The rich, fruity odour is said to resemble the fragrance of Nymphaea amazonum.

[9][12] It has been observed growing in shallow waters of 20-100 cm in depth at river margins.

[3] In Puerto Rico it is a rare species facing habitat destruction.

[19] Various other ethnobotanical uses were also reported: Decoctions were used for cases of morphea, as a drink it was used against erysipelas, and it has been used as treatment of facial tumours, toothaches and leprous wounds.

[21][22][18][23] It should be cultivated in high light conditions in rich, loamy fertile substrate at temperatures of 23 - 29 °C.