Contents
Description
The Nelumbo Nucifera, commonly known as the Sacred Lotus, is a perennial aquatic plant native to Asia, Australia, and North America. It is a sacred plant in Hinduism and Buddhism, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. The plant grows in shallow waters and has large, beautiful pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers have a fragrant scent and can grow up to 12 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Nymphaeales |
| Family | Nelumbonaceae |
| Genus | Nelumbo |
Appearance
The Sacred Lotus has large, circular leaves that can grow up to 2 feet in diameter. The leaves are green and have a waxy coating that repels water. The plant also has long, thick stems that can reach up to 6 feet in length. The flowers grow on top of the stems and have a diameter of up to 12 inches. The flowers have numerous petals that are either white or pink, and a center filled with small seeds.
Care Guide
The Sacred Lotus requires full sun and warm water to thrive. It prefers water temperatures between 75-85°F and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. The plant should be grown in a container with rich, loamy soil and kept in shallow water. The depth of the water should be no more than 6 inches. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sacred Lotus is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and snails. It can also be affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to maintain good water quality and avoid overcrowding of plants. If the plant becomes infected, remove the affected leaves and treat with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The Sacred Lotus grows in shallow, still waters like ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It can be found in Asia, Australia, and North America. The plant is often grown for its ornamental value in water gardens and ponds.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Sacred Lotus?
A: The plant should be kept in shallow water and the water should be changed every 2-3 days.
Q: Can I grow Sacred Lotus in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container with rich, loamy soil and kept in shallow water.
Q: How do I fertilize my Sacred Lotus?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases in my Sacred Lotus?
A: Maintain good water quality and avoid overcrowding of plants. If the plant becomes infected, remove the affected leaves and treat with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Related Plants
- Nymphaea Odorata (American White Waterlily)
- Nymphaea Caerulea (Blue Lotus)
- Victoria Amazonica (Giant Water Lily)
References
- “Nelumbo nucifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 July 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c430.
- “Sacred Lotus.” National Wildlife Federation. Accessed 22 July 2021. www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Plants-and-Fungi/Sacred-Lotus.
- “Growing and Caring for Lotus.” The Spruce. Accessed 22 July 2021. www.thespruce.com/growing-and-caring-for-lotus-1403490.
