Lotus Tenuis

Description

Lotus Tenuis, also known as Slender Lotus, is a species of aquatic plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to North America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This plant is commonly found in shallow freshwater habitats, such as ponds, lakes, and streams. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. Its leaves are green, long, and narrow, while its flowers are bright yellow and bloom from June to September. This plant is an important food source for various aquatic animals, such as ducks, geese, and fish.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lotus Tenuis is an aquatic plant that has long and narrow green leaves that can grow up to 6 inches in length. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. Its flowers are bright yellow and bloom from June to September. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals. The plant has a shallow root system and can easily spread through runners. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

Care Guide

Lotus Tenuis is an easy plant to take care of, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips to take care of your Lotus Tenuis:

• Water: Lotus Tenuis requires a lot of water to grow. It should be planted in shallow water, with a depth of 1-2 feet. The water should be changed regularly to prevent the growth of algae and other harmful organisms.
• Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: Lotus Tenuis does not require soil to grow. It can be planted directly in the water, or in a container filled with gravel or sand.
• Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Lotus Tenuis can grow in hardiness zones 4-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lotus Tenuis is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by some diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may affect your Lotus Tenuis:

• Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
• Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It can be prevented by planting the plant in well-draining soil and not overwatering it.
• Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Lotus Tenuis is native to North America and can be found in shallow freshwater habitats, such as ponds, lakes, and streams. It prefers to grow in still or slow-moving water and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Lotus Tenuis grow in saltwater?

A: No, Lotus Tenuis cannot grow in saltwater. It requires freshwater to grow.

Q: Is Lotus Tenuis edible?

A: Yes, Lotus Tenuis is edible. Its leaves and seeds are used in some traditional dishes.

Q: How often should I change the water in my Lotus Tenuis pond?

A: The water should be changed once a week to prevent the growth of algae and other harmful organisms.

Q: Can I grow Lotus Tenuis indoors?

A: No, Lotus Tenuis requires full sunlight to grow and cannot be grown indoors.

Related Plants

• Lotus corniculatus
• Lotus japonicus
• Lotus uliginosus
• Lotus purshianus

References

• “Lotus Tenuis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 11 August 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=LOTE
• “Lotus Tenuis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 11 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=w680
• “Slender Lotus.” Aquaplant. Accessed 11 August 2021. https://aquaplant.tamu.edu/plant-identification/alphabetical-index/slender-lotus/