What is a lily pad?

A lily pad is the green, floating leaf of a water lily. Lily pads have a round shape after they open up under the sunlight. They are common in still waters such as ponds or lakes. Some lily pads produce flowers that range in color from white to red.

Excessive lily pad growth in a certain area can overwhelm water animals and other plants. The lily pad is popularly known as the resting spot for water-based frogs. Frogs also use the pads as a refuge from such predators as snakes and large fish. A frog can also invite flies and other flying insects in by resting quietly on a pad.