"n. nouchali" grows from rhizomes or tubers rooted under the water. leaves are oval to round, 13–15 cm (5–6 in), with an open sinus at the leaf base where it attaches to the petiole (leaf stem). leaves may spread 1.4–1.5 m (4–5 feet) from where the rhizome is rooted. flowers, which have little fragrance, are star-shaped with 4 sepals and 10–16 petals, and are 5–13 cm (2–5 in) in diameter. although leaves float on the water surface, flowers are generally held 30 cm (12 in) above water. they are usually pale blue (but can be pink or white) with pale yellow stamens and anthers.