While often called water lilies, they are not.
Lotus (Nelumbospp.)
leaves and flowers are emergent or rise above the water’s surface whilewater lily(Nymphaeaspp.)
Photography by Dalang5 / Getty Images
leaves and flowers, which have a wider range of colors, float on the water’s surface.
Lotus plants grow rapidly reaching three to six feet tall and spread through rhizomes rooted in muddy soil.
The white, pink, or yellowflowersare large and appear in the summer and autumn.
Lotus Care
Some lotus cultivars are considered invasive in some areas of the United States.
A mix of pine bark and topsoil provides a substrate that is a good texture for lotus culture.
Water
Since lotus are aquatic plants, the soil should be wet at all times.
The water should not be allowed to freeze.
Pruning Lotus Plants
Regularly remove dead leaves and stalks to promote new growth.
Propagating Lotus Plants
While lotus plants produce seeds, propagating by dividing therhizomesis much more successful.
To prevent this, add circulation pumps to the pond or water container.
It can also be helpful to place the pots in deeper water that does not freeze.
you might also remove pots from the water and keep them in a cool storage area.
Check the pots frequently and keep the soil very moist.
Treat fungal diseases that cause leaf wilting and spotting by using a fungicide to treat the plant.
Common Problems with Lotus Plants
Lotus plants need full sun to thrive and bloom profusely.
Plants will not bloom if they become rootbound or overcrowded.
Lotus plants are easy to care for once they are established.
Lotus flowers usually last around three days.
Lotus plants are perennials that can last for many years if cared for correctly.
Midwest Invasive Species Information connection
American Lotus.University of Florida
