Lotus, American (Nelumbo lutea) seeds

Family: Lotus (Nelumbonaceae)

Hardy to Zones 4 to 10

(American Lotus, Yanquapin)  Aquatic perennial native to the Eastern US and Canada.  Ponds that do not freeze on the bottom are probably more likely to sustain good populations of this plant through the winter, but it is nonetheless extremely cold hardy, especially in comparison to its Indian counterpart (Nelumbo nucifera).  This is the largest native american wildflower, with leaves that reach to 2 feet and large yellow flowers on tall stalks that rise handsomely above the water surface.  Plant prefers still, shallow water with a mud bottom.  To sprout the seeds, rub through the seedcoat with sandpaper or a grinding wheel until the white endosperm is just exposed.  Then drop seed in a gallon jar of water placed indoors in a light, warm windowsill. When water becomes cloudy, replace it with clear water.  Germination is within 2 weeks. After the seedling produces its first lily pads, transplant to the pond.  Make sure the roots are firmly anchored in the mud at the bottom of the pond.  If the lily pad ends up under the surface of the water, it is probably not a problem.  New pads will be sent out and will reach the surface.

Packet contains 7 seeds

100 g contains ~111 seeds

Open Pollinated, Untreated, NO GMO’s