Nelumbo lutea (American Lotus or Yellow Lotus) is one of North America's most spectacular native aquatic plants, known for its enormous round leaves and fragrant pale yellow blooms. Rising high above the water's surface, its flowers can reach up to 10 inches across and are followed by distinctive cone-shaped seed pods that provide food for waterfowl and other wildlife. Large floating and emergent leaves create shade, shelter, and habitat within ponds and lakes while spreading rhizomes help establish impressive colonies over time. With its iconic appearance and ecological importance, American Lotus brings a dramatic, natural beauty to larger ponds and aquatic landscapes.

Scientific Name: Nelumbo lutea

Origin: Texas and North America

Native Habitat: Ponds, lakes, freshwater marshes, slow-moving waters

Height: Leaves and flowers rise 3–6 ft above water

Spread: Variable (spreads by rhizomes)

Light: Full Sun

Water: Wet (fully aquatic)

USDA Zones: 4–10

Bloom: June to September