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Description
Lotus Hispidus is a beautiful aquatic plant with vibrant pink flowers that are a sight to behold. It is also known as the “Hairy Lotus” due to the fine hairs on its leaves and stems. This plant is native to South America and is commonly found in the Amazon River basin. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread over 4 feet wide. Its leaves are round and can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. The flowers of the Lotus Hispidus bloom in the summer and fall, and they are a favorite among gardeners and aquatic plant enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lotus |
Appearance
The Lotus Hispidus has green, rounded leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The leaves are attached to long, slender stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The flowers of the Lotus Hispidus are pink, with a diameter of 2-3 inches. They have a unique appearance, with a central cone surrounded by several layers of petals. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall and are a favorite among bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
To care for the Lotus Hispidus, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: The Lotus Hispidus requires a lot of water, as it is an aquatic plant. It should be grown in a container filled with water, and the water level should be kept at a consistent level.Fertilization: The Lotus Hispidus can benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is designed for aquatic plants.Soil: The Lotus Hispidus does not require soil, as it is an aquatic plant. Instead, it should be grown in a container filled with water and planted in a pot or basket.Sunlight: The Lotus Hispidus requires full sun to grow and bloom properly. It should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Lotus Hispidus is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lotus Hispidus is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to pests and diseases. However, there are a few issues that can arise:Aphids: These small insects can feed on the leaves and stems of the Lotus Hispidus, causing damage to the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Fungal Diseases: The Lotus Hispidus can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if it is grown in water that is not clean or stagnant. To prevent fungal diseases, make sure to keep the water clean and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Lotus Hispidus is native to South America and is commonly found in the Amazon River basin. It prefers to grow in shallow water, such as ponds or streams, and can also be grown in containers filled with water. It thrives in warm, humid environments and requires full sun to grow and bloom properly.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Lotus Hispidus be grown in a pond?A: Yes, the Lotus Hispidus is a great plant to grow in a pond, as it prefers to grow in shallow water.Q: How often should I fertilize my Lotus Hispidus?A: You should fertilize your Lotus Hispidus once a month during the growing season.Q: Can the Lotus Hispidus tolerate cold temperatures?A: No, the Lotus Hispidus is not frost-tolerant and should be protected during the winter months in colder climates.Q: How often should I change the water in the container of my Lotus Hispidus?A: You should change the water in the container of your Lotus Hispidus once a week to keep it clean and prevent the buildup of algae.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to the Lotus Hispidus:
- Lotus Berthelotii
- Lotus Maculatus
- Lotus Tenuis
References
- “Lotus Hispidus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c323.
- “Lotus Hispidus.” The Pond Guy, www.thepondguy.com/product/lotus-hispidus.
- “Lotus Hispidus.” World of Water Aquatic Centres, www.worldofwater.com/lotus-hispidus.
