Yellow Bird Lotus

The Yellow Bird Lotus, also known as American Lotus, American Yellow Lotus, and the Water Chinaquin, produces vast numbers of larger, bright yellow blossoms. Each blossom measures up to 11 inches in diameter and has from 22 to 25 rich yellow petals with slightly lighter tips. These flowers reach several inches above the leaves and carry a slight fragrance.

Lutea leaves can grow up to 18 inches in diameter and may grow up to 3 feet above the water. These leaves are large, green, and umbrella-shaped. Native to eastern and central United States, this is an extremely durable plant that can grow to be around 5 feet tall.

Plant new tubers in pots and place in pond when water temperature has reached at least 55°F. If you have lotus that are already potted and have been wintered inside, set them out on your porch in full sun. Keeping them there until the water in the pot is approximately 80°F will get them to bloom sooner. Wait until leaves have started to grow and the pond temperature is above 70°F before submerging the lotus pot in your pond. This prevents the plant from going into shock.

If possible, do not allow water to sit on the surface of the leaves; this will create burns. After a rain shower, tip leaves to allow water to run off them. Lotus leaves naturally repel water, but sometimes rain can puddle in the center. Lotus should be repotted every 3 to 5 years to maintain proper growth. The smaller the pot, the more often it will need to be repotted.

Our lotuses are shipped as a bare root tuber with no leaves. The approximate shipping size of the tuber is 2" to 4". Zones 5-11.

Please click on "More Information" for planting instructions.