The sacred lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, is a perennial aquatic plant deeply rooted in the cultural history of Asia. It is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in both Hinduism and Buddhism, often depicted as a pedestal for divine figures. Every part of the plant, from its roots to its flowers, has been utilized for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental applications. Finding the lotus requires knowing the specific form needed, as the source depends entirely on whether the plant is sought for cultivation, consumption, or herbal preparation.
Purchasing Lotus for Gardening and Landscaping
Acquiring live lotus plants for a pond or water garden involves seeking dormant tubers or viable seeds for propagation. The most reliable sources are specialized aquatic nurseries or garden centers that focus on pond plants. These professional growers often ship the lotus as bare-root tubers in the early spring, typically between March and May, allowing the plant to establish itself before the summer growing season.
Online aquatic plant e-commerce sites provide a vast selection of different cultivars, ranging from towering varieties to compact “bowl lotus.” When ordering, customers should check the hardiness zone information provided by the seller. Note the distinction between ornamental varieties, which are selected for flower size and color, and edible varieties, which are cultivated for their rhizomes.
Seeds can also be purchased from reputable seed banks. While seeds are an option for propagation, the dormant tuber is the preferred and most successful method for introducing the plant to a new environment. Disturbing the lotus during its active growing season can be detrimental.
Sources for Edible Lotus Components
The various parts of the lotus plant are common food items in many Asian cuisines, and they can be sourced in fresh, dried, or prepared forms. Lotus root, known as renkon, is widely available in large Asian grocery stores and international markets, and sometimes in the international section of conventional supermarkets. The root is sold either fresh, requiring peeling and preparation, or pre-cooked and vacuum-sealed for convenience.
Fresh lotus root is appreciated for its crisp, starchy texture and is often used in stir-fries, soups, and pickled preparations. Lotus seeds are another common edible component, available in dried, shelled form for use in soups, porridges, and traditional desserts, or candied as a snack. These seeds can often be found in the bulk food or snack aisles of international markets, particularly those specializing in Chinese or Southeast Asian ingredients.
Lotus leaves are not typically eaten but are used as a wrapper to impart a subtle, earthy aroma. They are also sold in these markets, either fresh or dried. These leaves are popularly used for wrapping sticky rice or other steamed dishes before cooking. Specialty online retailers also offer products like lotus root starch or herbal tea powder derived from the root.
Finding Dried Lotus for Tea and Herbal Use
Dried lotus products for beverages and herbal applications are typically sourced from different markets than those selling food items. Dried lotus flowers, petals, and stamens intended for tea are primarily found through online specialty tea retailers and dedicated herbal shops. These suppliers focus on preserving the floral aroma and potential bioactive compounds of the plant.
Many commercially available dried flowers are derived from the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) or the Egyptian blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea), with the latter often sold as whole dried blossoms. These products are frequently marketed with an emphasis on relaxation or mood-elevating properties. They are available as whole flowers, crushed petals, or loose-leaf tea.
For more concentrated forms, such as powdered stamens or other derived herbal products, consumers should look to online supplement retailers or suppliers specializing in traditional Chinese medicine. When purchasing any consumable herbal product, select suppliers who emphasize ethical sourcing, organic cultivation, and quality control. This ensures the purity and potency of herbal teas and supplements.