Nelumbo nucifera

species of plant

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.

Nelumbo nucifera

Classification change

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

Botany change

Flowers change

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

Seeds change

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 change

Planting change

 
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 change

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

Related pages change

References change

  1. "Sacred Lotus". Encyclopædia Britannica. 4 May 2023.
  2. "5 lotus flower benefits and uses for skin & Hair to look upon".

Other websites change

Taxon identifiers
  • Wikidata: Q16528