Nelumbo nucifera
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.
Classification
The lotus is often confused with the true water lilies of the genus Nymphaea.
Botany
Flowers
The flowers are usually found on thick stems rising several centimeters above the leaves. Some cultivated varieties have extraordinary numbers of petals.
Seeds
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
Planting
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
Two to three months after planting, the stolon is now ready to harvest. It must be harvested before flowering.
Related pages
References
- "Sacred Lotus". Encyclopædia Britannica. 4 May 2023.
- "5 lotus flower benefits and uses for skin & Hair to look upon".