Nelumbo nucifera aka East Indian Lotus

Taxonomy

Genus Nelumbo Family Nelumbonaceae Order Proteales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta

Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the Sacred lotus, Laxmi lotus, Indian lotus, or simply lotus, is an aquatic perennial adapted to grow in the flood plains of slow-moving rivers and delta areas. It has a very wide native distribution, ranging from India and Sri Lanka to Northern Indochina, East Asia, Island Southeast Asia, New Guinea and northern and eastern Australia. It has a long history (c. 3,000 years) of being cultivated for its edible seeds and is widely used as a symbol of longevity. It flowers from July to August with large pink flowers and is pollinated by insects, beetles. It can grow in water and is hardy to zone (UK) 5, however it cannot grow in the shade. In some Midwestern states, it is considered a noxious weed.

Common names

East Indian Lotus, Oriental Lotus, Lotus

How to care for East Indian Lotus

Difficulty

East Indian Lotus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

East Indian Lotus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your East Indian Lotus is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.

Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.

Lighting

East Indian Lotus requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your East Indian Lotus will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Region of origin

East Indian Lotus’s native range is Western. Asia from Iran eastwards to China, Japan and Australia.

More info:
Wikipedia

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