American lotus

plant

Also known as: Nelumbo lutea, Nelumbo pentapetala, water chinquapin(Show More)

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July 23, 2026

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The American lotus, scientifically known as Nelumbo lutea, is an aquatic plant native to the eastern United States and extending south to Colombia. It is characterized by large, emergent leaves that can reach up to 2 feet across and stand significantly above the water's surface. The plant produces large, pale yellow flowers, approximately 25 cm (10 inches) in diameter, which close at night.1

The American lotus belongs to the Nelumbonaceae family, which also includes the sacred lotus of Asia. Unlike other water lilies, its leaves are funnel- or cup-shaped and centrally stalked. The plant's rhizomes (rootstocks) are edible and were historically a food source for Native Americans. The seeds are also edible, and the dried seed receptacles are used in floral arrangements. The American lotus provides habitat and food for wildlife, such as beavers and fish.1

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lotus
…of eastern North America is Nelumbo pentapetala, a similar plant with yellow blossoms (see Nelumbonaceae). The lotus tree, known to the Romans as the Libyan lotus, was probably Celtis australis, the nettle tree of southern Europe, a member of the elm family (Cannabaceae) with fruits like small cherries, first red…
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…of eastern North America is Nelumbo pentapetala, a similar plant with yellow blossoms (see Nelumbonaceae). The lotus tree, known to the Romans as the Libyan lotus, was probably Celtis australis, the nettle tree of southern Europe, a member of the elm family (Cannabaceae) with fruits like small cherries, first red…
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Nelumbonaceae
The other species is the American lotus, or water chinquapin (N. lutea, or N. pentapetala), found in the eastern United States and southward to Colombia.
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The other species is the American lotus, or water chinquapin (N. lutea, or N. pentapetala), found in the eastern United States and southward to Colombia.
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Proteales
Nelumbonaceae
…lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and the American lotus (Nelumbo lutea), are the sole members of the aquatic family Nelumbonaceae. These water plants are easily recognized by their large round leaves, which are held above the water surface like inverted umbrellas, and by their flowers, which are similar to those of water…
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…lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and the American lotus (Nelumbo lutea), are the sole members of the aquatic family Nelumbonaceae. These water plants are easily recognized by their large round leaves, which are held above the water surface like inverted umbrellas, and by their flowers, which are similar to those of water…
Read More