Lotus Root — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Nelumbo nucifera |
|---|---|
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 150–210 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 91.4–152.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 91.4–152.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 91.4–182.9 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 5–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Tuber |
Growing directions
Plant intact rhizome sections (with at least one growing tip) horizontally in the mud bottom of a pond, tub, or container submerged under 12–18 inches of still water; never allow the growing tip to dry out. Full sun is essential — lotus will produce only foliage and few flowers in shade. Harvest rhizomes in fall once foliage dies back by reaching into the mud and carefully pulling out the chain of large, starchy sections; the distinctive lacy, hole-patterned cross-section is a signature feature. Rhizomes must be cooked before eating; they are eaten stir-fried, pickled, or braised throughout East and Southeast Asia and have a crunchy texture even after cooking.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0