A striking aquatic perennial with large blue-green leaves held high on stems above the water and fragrant pink to white bowl-shaped flowers followed by distinctive seed pods. Best in full sun in warm climates.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sacred Lotus
Botanically, Nelumbo nucifera is a fast-growing aquatic plant in the Nelumbonaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Pink and white flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Sacred Lotus
Sacred Lotus suits tropical, subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Sacred Lotus does best in clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sacred Lotus is adapted to wet or boggy ground. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Sacred Lotus after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Sacred Lotus in the garden
Sacred Lotus earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and edible harvests. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Sacred Lotus with plants that share its preference for wet or boggy ground and tropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Buying Sacred Lotus
Plant Sale lists Sacred Lotus as potted plants. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
