N. alba (Linnaeus) J. Presl is a species hardy waterlily.  It is native to Europe and northern Africa. It is free flowering, usually producing two or more flowers at a time. The flower is a white with yellow stamen and anthers and green pads. This species was used extensively by Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac in hybridizing and as such has been a parent to many exceptional hardy waterlilies.