Consulta Plantas

Care of the aquatic plant Nelumbo nucifera or Sacred lotus

The genus Nelumbo, family Nelumbonaceae, includes 2 species of aquatic plants native to Asia, Australia, North America and the Caribbean. The species are: Nelumbo nucifera and Nelumbo lutea.

Common names: Sacred lotus, Indian lotus, Sacred Water Lotus, Chinese arrowroot, Egyptian sacred bean, Chinese waterlily, Padma, Water bean, Eastern lotus. This species is native to Southeast Asia and Australia.

They are rhizomatous aquatic plants that reach 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) in height. The large peltate leaves with a rounded shape and velvety texture can float on the water or protrude above it. The very showy and large pink or red flowers measure up to 30 cm (11.8") in diameter. They bloom in summer. They produce curious inverted cone-shaped fruits.

These easy-to-grow plants are used in ponds and lakes 0.5-1.5 meters (20-59") deep and in large pots that are wider than deep.

The Nelumbo nucifera needs full sun exposure and a temperate climate. They resist light frosts.

The soil must be deep, muddy and contain abundant organic matter.

If they are grown in a pot, the substrate must always remain flooded.

They do not need fertilizers.

Prune dry stems and leaves in winter.

They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases.

They are propagated in spring by division of the rhizome and from seeds sown immediately after collection.

Images of the aquatic plant Nelumbo nucifera or Sacred lotus