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American lotus

Scientific Name: Nelumbo lutea

Family: Nelumbonaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: MI (American lotus), NJ (American lotus), PA (Amer

       

American Lotus (Nelumbo lutea)

The American Lotus, scientifically known as Nelumbo lutea, is a captivating aquatic plant native to North America. Often mistaken for water lilies, this perennial wildflower boasts impressive leaves and striking flowers, making it a distinctive addition to wetland habitats.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that the American Lotus has spongy rootstocks (rhizomes) in the mud, and the seeds and tubers can be eaten by waterfowl. This suggests that some parts of the plant may be palatable, though the text does not specify if it is toxic.
  • The plant can be found in marshes and near-shore areas, which could be accessible to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The American Lotus thrives in aquatic environments such as marshes, quiet backwaters, and rivers. Children may be drawn to these areas.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Nelumbo lutea
  • Common Names: American Lotus, Yellow Lotus, Water Chinquapin, American Yellow Lotus, Yellow Water Lotus, Duck Acorn, Water Nut, Yonkapin, Yockernut

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Nelumbonaceae (Lotus Family)
  • The Nelumbonaceae family is monotypic, meaning Nelumbo is its only genus.
  • Synonyms: Nelumbo lutea (Willd.) Pers.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to North America.
  • Specifically found east and south of the Rockies, as well as parts of California.
  • Also found near the Great Lakes.
  • Grows naturally in large ponds and lakes.
  • Habitat includes marshes, quiet backwaters, and near-shore areas.

Ecological Role

  • Can be invasive in certain water bodies.
  • Provides habitat and cover for invertebrates and juvenile fish.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Herbaceous aquatic perennial.
  • Emergent aquatic plant, meaning leaves and flowers emerge from the water.
  • Large, circular leaves, bluish-green in color, up to 2 feet in diameter.
  • Leaves are attached to the petiole in the center, without a cleft.
  • Leaves can be emersed above the water or floating on the surface.
  • Large yellow flowers with rich gold centers, 4 to 10 inches across.
  • Spongy rootstocks (rhizomes) are found in the mud beneath the water.
  • Height: 3.00 to [unspecified units].

Quirky Facts

  • The edible tuber of the American lotus is banana-shaped and can weigh as much as 0.5 lb. (0.22 kg).
  • The American lotus produces the largest flower of any plant in North America.