Lotus seeds : Nelumbo nucifera

The lotus bears leaves and flowers above the water on stiff stems, and forms a large “watering can”-shaped receptacle after flowering. The water lily has floating leaves and its flowers rest on the surface. These are two different genera (Lotus = Nelumbonaceae / Water lily = Nymphaeaceae).

Plenty : At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for good flowering. The first leaves may flutter, then the following ones rise into the air as the season progresses and the water warms.

Plant the rhizome in a container without holes with rich, heavy/clayey soil, then cover with ~20–30 cm of water. Place in full sun ; avoid moving water. Generous containers facilitate flowering. The container can then be placed in a pond, for example.

Hardy lotuses survive the winter if the rhizome does not freeze (protect from deep ice). There are also tropical lotuses, which require winter protection.

Flowering occurs in summer (from June to August depending on the climate). To encourage flowering and plant vigor, place the lotus in full sun and fertilize regularly during the season using a fertilizer or tablets specifically for aquatic plants. Cut off faded flowers and leaves as they appear.