American Lotus

Description

American lotus is an emergent, aquatic perennial that rises from a cylindrical rhizome. Stout stalks rise to 3 feet above the water to support round, blue-green leaves up to 2 feet in diameter with no clefts or splits. Large leaves which float on the surface of the water also occur. Solitary pale-yellow flowers appear on stalks and open to 10 inches wide. Sepals and petals are similar in shape and color and generally number 20 or more. Hard, nut-like fruits are found in circular cavities of a flat-topped receptacle.

Habitat Value

The American lotus is native to the eastern United States. It is found in still water, often in large colonies. Native Americans once ate the nut-like seeds and starchy roots. The plant also provides cover for resting waterfowl. American lotus frequently occurs in reservoir embayments in the central and western portions of the Tennessee Valley region.

Identifying Features

What It Looks Like—The extremely large, floating and standing leaves of American lotus make it easily distinguishable from other floating leaf species. This species also has a large white flower and large seed.

Where to Find It—Grows in nearshore areas with substantial sediment and nutrients.

Max Depth—0 to 6 feet

Similar Species—The flowers of fragrant water lily can resemble that of American lotus; however, the large round floating leaves of American lotus make it easily distinguishable from other species.

Seasonal Techniques

Spring—As newly sprouted leaf stems emerge from the rhizome, fishing a jig or craw in and around these stems is recommended.

Summer—The plant will grow rapidly, forming new plants along the rhizome. Large colonies of the plant will form along the shoreline with some leaves floating and others standing high above the water resembling a tuba. The formation of large leaves is the perfect opportunity to dissect large holes between leaves. An open understory can hold monster bass awaiting a meal.

Fall—Lotus will produce seeds in large seed pods growing above the water’s surface. The green pods will begin to turn brown and face down where the seeds will be released. The large floating leaves will begin to die and wither in late fall. As many leaves stand erect in the fall, flipping the stem bases of these massive plants becomes a great opportunity. A frog can also be worked over the large leaves and into large holes between the plants.

Winter—American lotus will overwinter using its extensive rhizome network.

Drawbacks

American Lotus can sometimes cause water use issues, impeding boat use and swimming activities.