Sacred Water Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

Family: Nelumbonaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Nelumbo nucifera is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects, beetles. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour and a crisp texture. — Root - cooked as a vegetable.; It is also a source of starch or arrowroot.; Much used and relished in Chinese cooking, the root has a mild flavour and a crisp texture.; It can be cooked with other vegetables, soaked in syrup or pickled in vinegar.

Habitat & North American Range

Found in large lakes to 1400 metres in the Himalayas. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)