Trees Planet: Nelumbo nucifera

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Nelumbo nucifera - Lotus Flower

General Information

Common Name	Lotus Flower
Scientific Name	*Nelumbo nucifera*
Sun Tolerance	Full Sun
Height	up to 2 m (up to 6 ft)
Spread	up to 1 m (up to 3 ft)
Growth Rate	Fast
Bloom Time	Summer
Color	Green,
Flower Color	Pink
Type	Herbs
Native	Asia, Australia and North America

Classification

Kingdom	Plantae – Plants
Subkingdom	Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
Superdivision	Spermatophyta – Seed plants
Division	Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
Class	Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
Subclass	Magnoliidae
Order	Nymphaeales
Family	Nelumbonaceae A. Rich. - Lotus- Lily Family
Genus	Nelumbo Adans. - Lotus
Species	N. nucifer

Nelumbo nucifera - Lotus Flower

Nelumbo nucifera, also known as the lotus flower, is a perennial aquatic plant that is native to Asia and Northern Australia. It is considered a sacred plant in many cultures and has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries.

The lotus flower grows in shallow water, typically in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It has large, round leaves that float on the water's surface, and its flowers are often pink or white and can grow up to 10 inches in diameter. The lotus plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a long, tubular stem that supports its leaves and flowers.

The lotus flower is revered in many cultures, including Buddhism and Hinduism, where it is a symbol of purity and enlightenment. In Egyptian mythology, it is associated with the sun, creation, and rebirth. The lotus is often depicted in art and literature as a representation of beauty, grace, and spiritual growth.

Various parts of the lotus plant have been used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine for centuries. Its seeds are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals and are believed to have various health benefits, including improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health. The lotus flower has also been used as a traditional remedy for diarrhea, fever, and liver problems.

The lotus flower is also an essential ingredient in many Asian cuisines. Its seeds, known as lotus nuts, are often used in desserts, such as mooncakes, and its root is commonly used in soups and stir-fries. Lotus tea, which is made by steeping lotus flowers in hot water, is also a popular beverage in many Asian countries.

Despite its cultural and medicinal significance, Nelumbo nucifera faces many threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and over-harvesting. In some countries, the plant is also threatened by the illegal trade of its seeds and flowers. Conservation efforts, such as protecting its natural habitat and promoting sustainable harvesting practices, are necessary to ensure the survival of this important species.

Nelumbo nucifera, or the lotus flower, is a sacred plant with cultural, medicinal, and culinary significance. It is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine. However, the plant faces many threats and conservation efforts are necessary to ensure its survival.