Nelumbo nucifera ( Sacred Lotus ) is an aquatic plant that is native to India, China and Russia and has been naturalised in many tropical and sub-tropical locations around the world. The entire plant is edible, is widely used in natural medicines and makes a stunning ornamental flower in ponds. During the summer, beautiful pink flowers attract pollinators into the garden.
Suitable for Sub-Tropical and Tropical climates but can tolerate some colder climates once established during the warmer months.
Growth
Nelumbo nucifera is a flowering perennial that grows in water and reaches heights of up to 1.8 metres (6 feet) and 1.2 metres (4 feet) wide. Though noted as a sub-tropical plant that requires warm temperatures, its wild habitats include the Amur region of Russia, the base of the Himalayas and at heights of around 1,300 metres (4,500 feet).
However, the germination and early development of Sacred Lotus plants occurs much better in daytime temperatures that regularly reach 25°C / 77°F.
Nelumbo nucifera naturally grows in water up to 2.5 metres (8 feet) deep with a minimum depth of 30cm (1 foot). In cooler climates, deeper water provides more protection to the sensitive tubers. Sacred Lotus also prefers a loamy, clay soil that is rich nutrients and a location that provides plenty of sunlight.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Nelumbonaceae
CLIMATE:
Sub-Tropical, Tropical.
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
20°C to 35°C / 68 to 96°F
SOIL TYPE:
Combination of clay and sand.
LOCATION:
Full Sun
HEIGHT:
Up to 180 cms (6 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 120 cms (4 feet)
pH:
5.7-6.8
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial rhizome.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low-Medium.
POLLINATION:
Bees and insects but can also self pollinate containing both male and female parts.
MATURITY:
1-2 years.
GERMINATION RATES:
55-75%
GERMINATION TIME:
Scarify, then soak for 6 hours, then 10-14 days.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER KILOGRAM:
Roughly 1400
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy, if correct technique is followed
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 10 years.
FACTS ABOUT NELUMBO NUCIFERA (Sacred Lotus)
Nelumbo nucifera plants have been cultivated as a food source for over 3000 years.
Sacred Lotus seeds have been known to germinate when around 1300 years old.
Nelumbo nucifera is the national flower of both India and Vietnam. In China, the sacred lotus is as a symbol of longevity.
