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Description
Nelumbo Lutea, commonly known as the Yellow Lotus, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the family Nelumbonaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. The Yellow Lotus is known for its large yellow flowers and round leaves that can grow up to 2 feet in diameter. The flowers of the Yellow Lotus are fragrant and can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The plant’s seeds are also commonly used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nelumbonaceae |
| Genus | Nelumbo |
Appearance
The Yellow Lotus has large round leaves that can grow up to 2 feet in diameter. The leaves are green and have a waxy texture that allows them to repel water. The plant’s flowers can be yellow or white and have a diameter of up to 8 inches. The flowers are held above the water on sturdy stems and are fragrant. The plant’s seeds are round and have a hard outer shell.
Care Guide
The Yellow Lotus requires a lot of water to grow and thrive. It should be planted in a large container or in a pond that is at least 2 feet deep. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The soil should be a mix of clay and loam and should be fertilized regularly. The plant is hardy in zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Lotus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. These can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. Insects such as aphids and spider mites can also be a problem but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Yellow Lotus is native to North America and can be found in various bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. It prefers shallow water and can often be found growing in muddy areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yellow Lotus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Yellow Lotus can be grown in a large container or pot as long as it is kept in at least 2 feet of water.
Q: Is the Yellow Lotus hard to care for?
A: The Yellow Lotus is relatively easy to care for as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives enough water and sunlight.
Q: Can the seeds of the Yellow Lotus be eaten?
A: Yes, the seeds of the Yellow Lotus are edible and are often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: How often should the Yellow Lotus be fertilized?
A: The Yellow Lotus should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Nelumbo Nucifera (Sacred Lotus)
- Nymphaea Odorata (Fragrant Water Lily)
- Nuphar Lutea (Yellow Water Lily)
- Victoria Amazonica (Giant Water Lily)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Nelumbo lutea. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d686
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Nelumbo lutea. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=NELU
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Nelumbo lutea. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nelumbo-lutea/
