NESTLED at the western foothills of Baiyun Mountain in Guangzhou, Yunxi Botanical Garden is a national ex‑situ conservation hub. Its dedicated Water Lily Display Area, spanning over 20,000 m², presents a living collection of native species from China and abroad, ranking among the country’s most significant. Behind the serene ponds lies a dynamic scientific effort. A specialized water lily conservation and development team works hand‑in‑hand with universities and research institutes to advance germplasm innovation. The photos capture their precise craft — from hand‑pollination and seed collection to growth monitoring — showcasing the science that sustains the garden’s 261 water‑lily and lotus varieties. (SD News)