Nelumbo nucifera, also known as Padma or Kamala, sacred lotus, Indian lotus, or simply lotus, is one of two extant species of aquatic plant in the family Nelumbonaceae. It is sometimes colloquially called a water lily, though this more often refers to members of the family Nymphaeaceae. The Lotus has an ancient and rich history, originating in Asia, particularly from regions like China, India, Vietnam, and Japan. It’s deeply embedded in the cultures of these countries, symbolizing purity, beauty, and rebirth, especially in Buddhism and Hinduism.
Lotus plants are adapted to grow in the flood plains of slow-moving rivers and delta areas. Stands of lotus drop hundreds of thousands of seeds every year to the bottom of the pond. While some sprout immediately and most are eaten by wildlife, the remaining seeds can remain dormant for an extensive period of time as the pond silts in and dries out. During flood conditions, sediments containing these seeds are broken open, and the dormant seeds rehydrate and begin a new lotus colony.
Lotus is the national flower of the Republic of India. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the largest political party in the world with around 200 million active members, uses lotus as its party symbol. BJP, in the past, have used lotuses in multiple colors – pink,white,blue,red and saffron, in their party flag.
Characteristics
- Flowers: Lotus flowers are large, often reaching up to 12 inches in diameter, with numerous petals that can be white, pink, yellow, or red. The flowers rise above the water level on tall, sturdy stems.
- Leaves: The leaves are circular with a central depression, often very large (up to 2 feet across), and they either float on the water or emerge above it. They are water-repellent, causing water to bead and roll off their surface.
- Growth Habit: Lotuses are aquatic perennials that grow from rhizomes, forming large, sometimes extensive plants in ponds, lakes, or shallow water bodies. They can grow quite tall, with some varieties reaching up to 6 feet in height.
- They have a unique feature called a “receptacle” where the seeds are arranged in a circular pattern. This seed head is often seen in art and has practical uses in cultivation and culinary arts.
Cultivation
Soil: Lotus plants require a rich, loamy, or clay-heavy soil. Garden soil mixed with aquatic planting soil or clay is recommended. They don’t thrive in pure sand or overly acidic soil.
Container or Pond:
- Container: If growing in a container, use a wide, shallow pot to mimic the natural shallow water environment. The pot should be large enough to allow the rhizomes to spread.
- Pond: In a pond, they can be naturalized, but controlling their spread might be necessary as they can become quite invasive.
Water Depth: For optimal growth, the rhizomes should be planted in water about 6-18 inches deep. As the plant grows, the water level can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of the stems and leaves.
Planting: Plant the rhizomes with the growth tip pointing upwards and the majority of the rhizome buried in the soil, leaving the tip just above soil level. Cover the soil with gravel to keep it in place. Early spring is ideal when water temperatures are above 60°F (15°C).
Sunlight: Lotus plants need full sun for at least 6 hours a day to thrive and bloom profusely.
Temperature: They prefer warm water, with temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) being optimal for growth. They can survive in cooler water but might not bloom as vigorously.
Fertilization: Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for aquatic plants. Apply fertilizer tablets into the mud around the rhizomes. Fertilize monthly during the growing season.
Maintenance:
- Deadheading: Remove old flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Division: Every few years, divide the rhizomes to prevent overcrowding and to renew vigor. This is best done in late winter or early spring.
Pests and Diseases: Lotuses are relatively hardy but can suffer from pests like aphids, caterpillars, and beetles, and diseases like leaf spot. Good water quality and circulation help prevent many issues.
Overwintering: In climates with cold winters, the plant will die back, but the rhizomes will survive in the mud. In containers, move to a pond or dig a hole in the ground where they can overwinter, or bring the container indoors, ensuring it doesn’t freeze.