Sacred Lotus Pink Seeds

5 Seeds

Sacred Lotus is an aquatic plant that is native to India, China and Russia and has been naturalized in many tropical and sub-tropical locations around the world.

Suitable for Sub-Tropical and Tropical climates but can tolerate some colder climates once established during the warmer months.

Growth

Nelumbo nucifera is a flowering perennial that grows in water and reaches heights of up to 1.8 metres (6 feet) and 1.2 metres (4 feet) wide. Though noted as a sub-tropical plant that requires warm temperatures, its wild habitats include the Amur region of Russia, the base of the Himalayas and at heights of around 1,300 metres (4,500 feet).

However, the germination and early development of Sacred Lotus plants occurs much better in daytime temperatures that regularly reach 25°C / 77°F.

Nelumbo nucifera naturally grows in water up to 2.5 metres (8 feet) deep with a minimum depth of 30cm (1 foot). In cooler climates, deeper water provides more protection to the sensitive tubers. Sacred Lotus also prefers a loamy, clay soil that is rich nutrients and a location that provides plenty of sunlight.

How to Sprout Lotus Seeds

What You’ll Need

• Lotus seeds
• Nail file, sandpaper, or knife (for scarification)
• Clear container or glass
• Warm water (ideally between 25°C to 30°C)
• Sunny location or grow light

Step 1: Choose the Right Seeds

Ensure your lotus seeds are viable. Good seeds are hard and dark brown or black. They should sink in water. Discard any that float after 24 hours.

Step 2: Scarify the Seeds

Lotus seeds have a hard outer shell that needs to be scarified to allow water to penetrate. Use a nail file, sandpaper, or a knife to gently file or scrape one end of the seed until you expose the whitish inner layer. Avoid damaging the inner seed.

Step 3: Soak the Seeds

1. Place the scarified seeds in a clear container filled with warm water.
2. Keep the water level about 2-3 times the height of the seeds, allowing them to expand.
3. Change the water daily to prevent bacteria growth.
4. Keep the container in a warm, sunny location.

Step 4: Wait for Sprouting

Within 3-14 days, the seeds will swell and sprout. You’ll see a small green shoot emerge from the scarified end. Continue changing the water daily and ensure the seeds stay warm.

Step 5: Transplant the Sprouts

Once the sprout reaches 4-6 inches long and develops small roots, transfer it to a pot or pond.

1. Use a wide, shallow pot filled with heavy garden soil or aquatic planting media. Avoid lightweight or sandy soil.
2. Gently press the sprout into the soil, ensuring the green shoot remains above the surface.
3. Submerge the pot in water so the top of the soil is 2-4 inches below the waterline. Use distilled or dechlorinated water if possible.

Step 6: Care for Your Lotus

• Provide full sun (6-8 hours daily).
• Maintain water temperature between 25°C to 30°C.
• Fertilize sparingly once the plant is established, using aquatic plant fertilizer.

With proper care, your lotus will thrive and eventually produce beautiful leaves and flowers.