Nelumbo nucifera

Persistent aquatic plants of the genus Lotus in the Water Lily family. Also known as lotus, lotus, water hibiscus and so on. Lotus originally refers to its fruit, uniformly called lotus seedling; after the flower, the real are generalized as lotus. The fat part of the underground stem is called lotus root. Widely planted throughout the north and south of China, Wuhan, Hangzhou and other places in particular varieties. Lotus like relatively stable static water, avoid rising and falling and wind and waves of running water, water depth should not exceed 1.5 meters. Growing season stem and leaf optimal temperature of 25 ~ 30 ℃. Requirements for adequate sunshine, should not be cultivated indoors for a long time. Soil to rich in organic matter of clay loam is appropriate. Lotus life is particularly long, thousands of years old lotus can still sprout new plants. Lotus is more commonly propagated by dividing the plant, and can also be sown to propagate. All preferred in the spring after the turn of warmth. The main diseases of the lotus are rot disease, leaf spot disease, etc., and insect pests are aphids and golden turtles. Masonry pool planting lotus, and according to the water to establish bridges, salts, constitute the lotus scenic spot, is the traditional Chinese garden techniques, all over the famous scenery, are widely used. It is also suitable for embellishing the water surface of the garden, purifying the water body, or as a potted plant. Lotus root and lotus seed is rich in nutrients, raw food, cooked food are suitable. Lotus root can be processed into lotus root powder, candied fruit. Lotus seeds have a tranquilizing effect, often used as soup or candied fruit, for the Chinese folk tonic. Lotus petals, young leaves can be eaten. Lotus parts can be used as medicine.