Numerous water gardens are graced by this unusual beauty. The stunning marginal aquatic perennial Nelumbo nucifera, sometimes known as the “Sacred Lotus,” has enormous, upward-cupped, umbrella-like leaves. 60 cm in diameter and 2 feet long, rising above the water on long petioles. Large, cupped, fragrant, pink or white blooms with a diameter of up to 8 inches (20 cm) bloom in the summer on long, rigid stalks that extend over the foliage. They bloom for around three days, opening in the morning and closing at night.
Their fruit is a 2-3 in. across (5-7 cm) expanded cone-shaped receptacle with pistil-containing chambers. In floral arrangements, the eye-catching seed receptacles are frequently employed. The Sacred Lotus expands through thicker rhizomes rooted in the mud, sometimes in an aggressive manner. Perhaps really large pots or small ponds are the ideal places to keep it.
Growing Conditions
Reaches heights of 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) and widths of 3-4 feet (90-120 cm). Any body of water will be invaded by this plant. Performs best in full sun on loams rich in organic matter in still water margins. For small ponds or water gardens. Up to 24 inches (60 cm) of water in a planting basket should cover the crowns. Plants cultivated in containers are simpler to care for. Propagate through division or seed. Scarified seed should be sown in small containers with 2 in. (5 cm) of water on top, at a minimum temperature of 77 °F (25 °C).
Once plants are big enough to place in flowering sites, increase water depth and container size. The spring. When growing, place rootstock horizontally, just beneath the soil’s surface, and barely immerse. No significant pest or disease problems. Keep out for red spider mites and aphids. Remove the withering foliage. Reduce the water level gradually in the autumn, remove the container, and overwinter in a frost-free environment while keeping the rhizomes just damp in colder climates. The lotus flower, which is native to Asia and Australia, is also grown in other regions of the world for its lovely blossoms.
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