Sacred Lotus, Chinese Arrowroot, Chinese Waterlily, East Indian Lotus, Egyptian Sacred Bean, Padma, Water Bean, Indian Lotus, Eastern Lotus, Lotus
Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the Sacred Lotus, Indian Lotus, or simply Lotus, is a breathtaking aquatic perennial celebrated for its striking, large flowers and iconic round leaves that float serenely on water surfaces. Renowned for its spiritual significance, the Sacred Lotus has been a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in many cultures for thousands of years. With its stunning blooms, edible parts, and ecological benefits, Nelumbo nucifera remains a cherished plant for ornamental ponds and water gardens worldwide.
The Sacred Lotus belongs to the Nelumbonaceae family, a small but unique group that includes the American Lotus (Nelumbo lutea) as its only other member.
Despite its association with the term “blue lotus,” the well-known Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) belongs to an entirely different family, Nymphaeaceae, which also includes other water lilies.
The Sacred Lotus is an aquatic perennial plant with extraordinary beauty and resilience. Its towering flower stalks rise above the water, bearing exquisite blooms reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) across. The flowers vary in shades of pink or white, often with a pleasant, subtle fragrance.
The plant’s large, round leaves, measuring up to 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, are equally captivating. These leaves either float on the water’s surface or stand upright, supported by sturdy stems, and are covered with a unique waxy coating that repels water.
The Sacred Lotus is more than just a visual marvel—it produces large, distinctive seed pods resembling showerheads, adding structural interest and beauty to water features even after the blooms fade.
The Sacred Lotus is native to Asia, particularly India, China, and Southeast Asia, where it thrives in the warm, shallow waters of lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Over time, it has naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including parts of Australia, the United States, and Africa. Its ability to flourish in wetland habitats contributes to its ecological significance.
The lotus flower is the national flower of India and Vietnam.
The Sacred Lotus is a perennial aquatic plant with a rhizomatous growth habit. The plant spreads through underground rhizomes, creating colonies of floating or emergent leaves and flowers. It is well-suited to still or slow-moving water bodies and provides both aesthetic and ecological value.
The Sacred Lotus grows to impressive dimensions. Its flower stalks can reach heights of 3–6 feet (0.9–1.8 meters) above the water surface, while its floating leaves can spread up to 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) in diameter. It spreads, sometimes aggressively, by thickened rhizomes rooted in the mud and can invade any body of water. It is perhaps best kept in very large containers or small ponds.
Large, cupped, and fragrant, the pink or white lotus flowers are true showstoppers. Measuring an impressive 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) across, these striking blooms grace long, sturdy stalks that rise well above the foliage. Blooming from early to late summer, each lotus flower lasts 3–4 days, opening fully in the sunlight and gently closing as night falls. The blossoms can be single or double-petaled, showcasing a prominent central receptacle encircled by golden stamens, adding to their breathtaking elegance.
After flowering, the plant produces unique seed pods, often referred to as “lotus nuts,” that mature into woody, conical structures. These seed pods contain edible seeds, which are prized for their nutritional value and longevity. The seeds can remain viable for hundreds of years, earning the Sacred Lotus its reputation for resilience. The striking seed receptacles are often used in flower arrangements.
The Sacred Lotus boasts huge, upward-cupped, umbrella-like leaves, 2 feet (60 cm) across, that can be either floating or rising above the water on long petioles. The leaves are typically bright green with a waxy, water-repellent coating that causes water droplets to bead and roll off. This self-cleaning property, known as the “lotus effect,” symbolizes purity in many cultures.
Lotus thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–110, depending on the depth of the water and protection from freezing temperatures. In colder climates, the rhizomes can survive winter if planted below the frost line. The plant prefers warm, sunny environments with water temperatures of at least 75°F (24°C).
The Sacred Lotus plays a crucial role in supporting aquatic ecosystems. Its leaves and flowers provide shelter for fish and frogs, while its seeds and rhizomes serve as food for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl.
The Sacred Lotus is non-toxic to humans and animals, making it a safe addition to gardens and water features. Its edible parts are widely consumed and celebrated for their health benefits.
Nelumbo nucifera is considered invasive due to the large, dense colonies it can produce if released into natural areas from cultivation. Find where the Sacred Lotus is invasive in the U.S.
The Sacred Lotus thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
The plant prefers clay or sandy loam soil rich in organic matter in calm water margins. For water gardens or small ponds, plant in a planting basket with up to 24 in. of water (60 cm), covering the crowns.
Maintain consistent water levels to keep the soil submerged. Avoid rapid fluctuations in water depth, which can stress the plant.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for aquatic plants every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
Remove faded flowers and yellowing leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance and prevent decay.
In colder regions, move container-grown lotus plants to a deeper area of the pond or indoors to protect the rhizomes from freezing.
Both methods—seeds and rhizomes—offer effective ways to propagate Sacred Lotus, ensuring a thriving and vibrant display in your water garden.
The lotus flower is one of the most iconic and revered symbols across cultures, religions, and philosophies. Its meaning is deeply tied to its ability to thrive in muddy waters, emerging as a pristine and radiant bloom. Here are the key meanings associated with the lotus flower:
The lotus is often regarded as a symbol of purity due to its ability to rise clean and unblemished from murky waters. In Buddhism, it represents spiritual awakening, the journey toward enlightenment, and the purity of the soul. Just as the lotus blooms above the water, it symbolizes rising above challenges and imperfections to achieve clarity and enlightenment.
The daily blooming and closing of the lotus flower in response to sunlight make it a powerful symbol of renewal, rebirth, and second chances. In Hinduism and other traditions, the lotus is associated with the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, embodying the potential for growth and transformation.
Growing in muddy, nutrient-rich waters, the lotus flower is a testament to resilience and inner strength. It reminds us that beauty and perseverance can emerge even from challenging or adverse conditions.
The lotus holds a sacred place in Hinduism and Buddhism. It is often associated with deities like Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Buddha, symbolizing divine beauty, knowledge, and spiritual progress.
In some cultures, the lotus represents love and harmony. Its delicate appearance and graceful bloom are seen as metaphors for balance, peace, and unity.
Yes, lotus flowers (Nelumbo nucifera) are perennial aquatic plants. They grow from hardy rhizomes that survive through winter in water bodies, sprouting new leaves and blooms in the growing season. In colder climates, the rhizomes must be planted below the frost line to ensure survival.
The lotus flower is special because of its symbolic and botanical uniqueness:
Yes, you can grow a lotus flower at home, either in a water garden, a large container, or a shallow pond. To grow:
No, the lotus flower (Nelumbo nucifera) and water lily belong to different plant families.
Yes, Nelumbo nucifera is highly edible, with many parts used in cooking:
The lotus plant symbolizes:
Lotus flowers are not rare, as they are cultivated worldwide in suitable climates and widely grown for ornamental, cultural, and culinary purposes. However, wild populations may face threats in certain regions due to habitat loss.
Lotus flowers typically bloom from early to late summer, depending on the climate and growing conditions. Each flower lasts for 3–4 days, opening fully during the day and partially closing at night. In tropical climates, they may bloom over an extended period.
Hardiness |
4 - 11 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
3 - 11 |
Plant Type | Aquatic Plants, Perennials |
Plant Family | Nelumbonaceae |
Common names | Padma, Lotus |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late) |
Height | 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 48" (90cm - 120cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | High |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Poorly Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | Australia |
Garden Uses | Ponds And Streams, Water Gardens |
Hardiness |
4 - 11 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
3 - 11 |
Plant Type | Aquatic Plants, Perennials |
Plant Family | Nelumbonaceae |
Common names | Padma, Lotus |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late) |
Height | 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm) |
Spread | 3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm) |
Spacing | 36" - 48" (90cm - 120cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | High |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Poorly Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | Australia |
Garden Uses | Ponds And Streams, Water Gardens |
How many Nelumbo nucifera (Sacred Lotus) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Nelumbo nucifera (Sacred Lotus) | N/A | Buy Plants |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!