Sacred Lotus

Nelumbo nucifera, Nelumbonaceae

Zones

4a–11b

Layer

Aquatic

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Moderate

Guild Roles

Pollinator AttractorProducer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Partial Shade (optimal)Full Sun (optimal)

Water

HighHighHigh

Soil pH

6 – 8

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Wild RiceZizania palustris

Nutrient AccumulationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Water FernAzolla filiculoides

Nitrogen Fixation

PickerelweedPontederia cordata

Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat

Marsh MarigoldCaltha palustris

Beneficial Insect HabitatPollinator Sharing

Narrow-Leaf CattailTypha angustifolia

Pollinator SharingNutrient Accumulation

Antagonistic Plants

Giant SalviniaSalvinia molesta

Giant salvinia can compete with lotus for surface area and may interfere with lotus leaf emergence

American LotusNelumbo lutea

Two lotus species may compete for aquatic space and nutrients, potentially hybridizing and affecting species purity

Uses

Functions

OrnamentalFoodMedicineWater Filtration

Edible Parts

SeedsRootsLeaves

Common Questions

What zones does Sacred Lotus grow in?

Sacred Lotus grows in USDA hardiness zones 4a through 11b.

What are good companion plants for Sacred Lotus?

Good companions for Sacred Lotus include Wild Rice, Water Fern, Pickerelweed, Marsh Marigold, Narrow-Leaf Cattail.

Design guilds with Sacred Lotus and see companion relationships visually.

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