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 an 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Sacred Lotus is wet or boggy ground. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Sacred Lotus with other plants that enjoy the same wet or boggy ground and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Sacred Lotus
Plant Sale lists Sacred Lotus as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.