American Lotus

Nelumbo lutea

Weed Description
A floating perennial found in shallow waters but can occur in depths up to 6 feet. Petioles can measure 2 meters in height and attach to large round leaves which are either floating or erect.

Leaves
American lotus leaves are round and centered on the petiole, and can measure up to 2 feet in diameter. Only one leaf is connected to a petiole.

Flowers
Yellow, very large containing many petals.

Fruit
Fruits are acorn-like and embedded in a fleshy, cone-shaped receptacle that later becomes dry and woody. Plants are generally in flower from July to August.

Roots
Fibrous root system with rhizomes connected to a single petiole.

Identifying Characteristics
American lotus is similar in appearance to water lilies but does not have a "cut" or "notch" in the leaf like the water lilies do.

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

American Lotus

Nelumbo lutea