Yellow Lotus American Lotus Nelumbo lutea 5 Seeds USA Company

Nelumbo lutea, commonly known as American lotus, is a species of aquatic plant belonging to the Nelumbonaceae family. It is native to North America and is notable for its striking and large floating leaves as well as its unique and attractive flowers. Here's some information about Nelumbo lutea:

1. Appearance:

American lotus is an aquatic perennial plant that grows in shallow waters such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams.

The leaves are large and round, often reaching diameters of up to 2 feet (60 cm) or more. They float on the water's surface and are supported by long petioles that emerge from the rhizomes underwater.

The flowers are a defining feature of the American lotus. They are large, solitary, and have a distinct appearance with numerous petals radiating from a central cone-like receptacle. The flowers can vary in color from pale yellow to cream and can measure several inches in diameter.

2. Habitat and Range:

American lotus is native to North America and is found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and marshes.

Its range extends from the eastern United States to parts of Canada.

3. Ecological Importance:

American lotus provides important habitat and food sources for various aquatic and wetland species. It supports diverse ecosystems and can contribute to improving water quality in its habitat.

4. Cultural and Symbolic Significance:

The lotus flower holds cultural significance in various cultures and is often associated with purity, rebirth, and enlightenment. It has been used as a symbol in art, religion, and literature.

5. Growing Nelumbo lutea:

American lotus can be grown in outdoor water features like ponds or naturalized wetlands.

It's best to plant American lotus in a large container or bottomless pot to prevent its vigorous growth from taking over the entire water body.

The plant requires full sun to thrive, so choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight.

Plant the rhizomes (underground stems) in the mud at the bottom of the container, with the leaves and flowers growing on the water's surface.

Growing Instructions

Scarification:

American lotus seeds have a tough outer coat that can inhibit germination. Scarification, which involves breaking or weakening the seed coat, can improve germination rates.

Use a file or sandpaper to gently scratch the seed coat. Be cautious not to damage the inner embryo.

3. Pre-soaking:

Soak the scarified seeds in warm water for 24 to 48 hours. This softens the seed coat and allows water to penetrate.

4. Planting:

Fill a container or pot with a mixture of soil and clay or loam. Ensure the container is large enough to accommodate the growth of the lotus.

Plant the pre-soaked seeds about 1 inch deep in the soil.

5. Germination Conditions:

Place the container in a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

The water level should be about 1 to 2 inches above the soil level. As the lotus grows, you can adjust the water level accordingly.

6. Germination Time:

Germination can take several weeks to a few months, as American lotus seeds can have variable germination periods.

7. Transplanting:

Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves and are strong enough to handle, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into a water garden or pond.

8. Aquatic Environment:

American lotus thrives in aquatic environments with still or slow-moving water. The plant's leaves and flowers will float on the water's surface.

If planting in a natural water body, make sure to contain the lotus using bottomless pots or containers to prevent its spread.

9. Care:

Maintain the water level so that the leaves and flowers can float on the surface.

Fertilize the lotus periodically during the growing season with aquatic fertilizer tablets.

10. Winter Dormancy:

In colder climates, American lotus goes dormant in the winter. The leaves and flowers die back, and the plant remains dormant until spring.