ExplorePlants

Lotus

The lotus is a beautiful flower that blooms on the surface of water. It is known for its lovely petals and is often seen in ponds.

Habitat: Ponds and shallow waters

Appearance

The Lotus has large, round leaves that float on the water, often reaching 60cm wide. Its striking, multi-petaled flowers bloom in white or various shades of pink, rising on stiff stems above the leaves, with a prominent yellow center.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFabalesFamilyFabaceaeGenusLotus

Lotus

Interesting facts

Its amazing leaves are naturally self-cleaning, always looking sparkling fresh.

Lotus flowers can mysteriously keep themselves warm, even in cool temperatures.

The air trapped in its stems helps the lotus breathe underwater!

The oldest known viable lotus seed sprouted after over 1,300 years!

Special abilities

Lotus leaves have a superhydrophobic surface that sheds water and dirt, keeping them remarkably clean and healthy.

Some lotus flowers can generate heat, attracting pollinators and helping them develop properly.

Lotus seeds can remain viable for hundreds, even thousands, of years, waiting for the perfect time to sprout.

Measurements & details

Height: 50-150 cm
Spread: 100-300 cm
Flower Size: 10-30 cm
Bloom Season: Summer
Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European honey bee

Apis mellifera

collects nectar and pollen

pollinates

Common Eastern Bumble Bee

Bombus impatiens

collects nectar and pollen

eaten by

Common Carp

Cyprinus carpio

may feed on young roots or shoots

shelters

Mallard

Anas platyrhynchos

nests among its dense leaves

Traits

Flowering

Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.

Shade Tolerant

Shade tolerant plants are adapted to grow and thrive in areas with low light levels, requiring less direct sunlight.

Fragrant Flower

Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.

Wetland

This habitat trait identifies species found in wetlands, which are areas of land saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, including marshes, swamps, and bogs.