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