Nelumbo nucifera

Nelumbo nucifera

Nelumbo nucifera, also known as the Egyptian bean, sacred lotus, Indian lotus, or simply lotus, is a species of plant in the genus Nelumbo sometimes colloquially called a water lily. They float on the surface of the water.

Classification

The lotus is often confused with the true water lilies of the genus Nymphaea.

Botany

Flowers

The flowers are usually found on thick stems rising several centimeters above the leaves. Some cultivated varieties have extraordinary numbers of petals.

Seeds

A fertilized lotus flower bears fruit that contains a cluster of 10 to 30 seeds. Each seed is ovoid 1–2.5 cm wide by 1–1.5 cm long with a brownish coat.

Cultivation

Planting

Nelumbo nucifera seed head

These plants require a nutrient-rich and loamy soil. The first step is to plough the dry field. One round of manure is applied after ten days, just before flooding the field.

Harvest

Two to three months after planting, the stolon is now ready to harvest. It must be harvested before flowering.

Nelumbo Nucifera Media

British 19th century, East Indian Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), late 19th century, National Gallery of Art, NGA 52325
Nelumbo nucifera
Carpellary receptacle of lotus
Lotus bud against the leaf
Lotus bud in advanced stage of bloom
Lotus effect on nelumbo nucifera hybrid
Lotus rhizome (Nelumbo nucifera)
Boiled, sliced lotus roots used in various Asian cuisines
Fresh lotus seeds ready to eat