Sacred Lotus

Sacred lotus is a large, rhizomatous aquatic perennial with round leaves and summer flowers held above the water. Its bold foliage, distinctive seed heads and cultural importance make it a striking feature for warm, sheltered ponds and water gardens. [RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11438/nelumbo-nucifera/details) records pink or white flowers and leaves up to 80 cm across. ## Garden Character The leaves may float or rise on tall stalks, while the flowers open above the water and are followed by a sculptural, conical seed head. Plant size and spread vary with cultivar and growing conditions; the existing catalog dimensions are retained as representative values rather than treated as a universal limit. ## Site and Water Choose full sun and calm, sheltered water over heavy, organically rich loam. The [RHS growing profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11438/nelumbo-nucifera/details) recommends starting a large container shallow and gradually lowering it as growth develops. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nelumbo-nucifera/common-name/sacred-lotus/) describes growth in shallow, still water and warns that spreading rhizomes can occupy a pond; contain the plant where space is limited and check local rules before planting. ## Maintenance Remove fading foliage as it declines. In cold climates, protect the rhizome from freezing; container-grown plants can be moved to deeper water or a frost-free place for winter, following the local pond depth and cultivar needs.