Nelumbo nucifera SACRED LOTUS (5 seeds)

Sacred Lotus, also known as Oriental Lotus or Indian Lotus, is a perennial, aquatic, and tropical plant native to the East. It belongs to the Nelumbonaceae family. It is a fast-growing plant with significant development.

The foliage consists of large, floating, round, and flat leaves that can reach 60 cm in diameter. They have a waxy texture that repels water, allowing them to remain dry and float on the water's surface.

Its flowers, revered in Eastern religions, are majestic, large, and pink in color. They often measure between 15 and 20 cm in diameter. As the national flower of India, it rises above the water on a sturdy stem, featuring numerous thin and delicate petals that open into a magnificent display. Their fragrance is sweet and their appearance elegant.

The fruits are brown, honeycomb-shaped, ovoid capsules that can reach ten centimeters in diameter. These fruits contain numerous seeds known as "lotus seeds," which remain viable for a very long time. The capsule forms at the center of the flower, and when ripe, it floats on the water, allowing for seed dispersal.

Sacred Lotus seeds from Nelumbo nucifera are gray, round, and very hard, measuring 1 to 2 cm in length.

- Uses:

The sacred lotus is widely cultivated for its ornamental qualities and deep spiritual symbolism. Its majestic flowers beautify ponds while representing purity in many Asian cultures.

In cooking, almost all parts of the plant are consumed, especially the rhizomes and seeds. They are often found in traditional soups or pastries for their crunchy texture and delicate taste.

The plant also possesses medicinal properties recognized for calming the mind and aiding digestion. Lotus extracts are also included in cosmetic products for their moisturizing and antioxidant virtues.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The most favorable period to sow Oriental Nelumbo begins during the months of June and July.
• Scarify the seeds with a small iron file on the bottom (where there is a tiny hole) until you see the beginning of the white cotyledon. You can also use sandpaper to avoid cuts.
• Soak them for 5 to 7 days in a warm environment (close to 30°C) until the small stem and the first roots appear.
• Change the water every 3 days.
• Transplant the seedlings into small individual pots or groups of two.
• Submerge them in the body of water.
• For indoor cultivation, choose a relatively tall and deep container.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

Nelumbo nucifera prefers rich, deep, and loose soil that is high in organic matter. A silty or clayey substrate, enriched with compost or organic fertilizer, promotes optimal growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This aquatic plant requires full sun to bloom abundantly. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to ensure vigorous growth.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

Oriental Pink Lotus is relatively hardy in temperate climates if its base is planted at a depth of at least 1.20 m. Under these conditions, it can tolerate moderate winter temperatures down to approximately -10°C.

- Watering / Water Needs:

As a submerged plant, it requires a constantly wet environment. The roots must be in at least 20 to 30 cm of water, or more, to encourage abundant flowering. Maintaining clean water is essential.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

It is mainly multiplied by dividing the rhizomes, carried out in spring or early summer. Division must be done carefully to preserve the health of the plant. Sowing seeds is also possible, but it is a longer process and less common.