Giant Water LiliesGiant Victoria water lilies (Victoria Amazonica or Victoria Regia) in bloom at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
The giant Victoria water-lilies bloom in August here in Washington, D.C. The leaves of the Victoria can grow up to almost 10 feet in diameter. They're very impressive.
Also in bloom in August is the blue lotus—also a beautiful sight:
Blue LotusA blue lotus (Nymphaea Caerulea) in bloom at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
I found both the Victoria and the blue lotus at Kenilworth. While I was there, a great blue heron stopped by to squawk hello:
Squawking HeronA great blue heron squawks at the world.
