In the scorching summer, the graceful lotus flowers standing on the water always attract the attention of visitors. This ancient aquatic plant not only adorns the water with its elegant posture but also carries the spiritual symbol of Chinese culture. From the "Book of Songs" to Zhou Dunyi's "Love of Lotus," the lotus has always been the favorite of literary scholars.
Biological Characteristics of Lotus
Unique Flower and Leaf Structure
The corolla of the lotus flower presents perfect radial symmetry, with a single flower diameter reaching up to 20 centimeters. Its petals have a unique waxy protective layer that can create a crystal-clear water bead rolling effect. The leaves spread out in a shield shape, with a nanoscale raised structure on the surface, resulting in the famous self-cleaning property.
Ingenious Underground Stem System
The airway network inside the rhizome is a marvel of engineering in the plant world, with honeycomb-like structures that can transport oxygen and provide the plant with powerful buoyancy. The main rhizome can extend up to 3 meters, and each node can sprout new buds, forming a spectacular underwater network.
Ecological Habits and Cultivation of Lotus
Ideal Growing Environment
The ideal water depth for lotus is 30-80 centimeters, with water temperature needing to be stable between 20-35℃. In famous lotus areas such as Hangzhou West Lake and Wuhan East Lake, slightly acidic silt with a pH of 6.5-7.0 is most conducive to root development. More than 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is key to the differentiation of flower buds.
Adaptability Across Climate Zones
With modern horticultural techniques, lotus has broken through its traditional distribution range. In Harbin, early-flowering varieties can bloom in July; in Guangzhou, adjusting water levels can extend the flowering period to October. Recently developed cold-resistant varieties can even survive winters at -15℃.
Multi-dimensional Application Value of Lotus
Example of Food and Medicine Origin
Lotus seeds contain 17 amino acids and trace elements such as calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, with the lotus heart alkaloid having a significant effect on lowering blood pressure. The alkaloids in lotus leaf tea can effectively inhibit fat absorption, making it a natural health drink. Extracts from the rhizome show potential in the development of anticoagulant drugs.
Expert in Ecological Restoration
Lotus communities can absorb 12 kilograms of nitrogen and 2.5 kilograms of phosphorus per hectare per day, with significant effects on the restoration of eutrophic water bodies. Their developed root systems provide spawning grounds for fish, forming a complete aquatic ecosystem.
Heritage of Lotus Culture
Since Jinan first designated the lotus as the city flower in 1985, 23 cities across the country have made the lotus their symbol. The annual International Lotus Exhibition held in July attracts millions of visitors, with traditional lotus appreciation activities combined with modern lighting technology creating a new artistic conception of the moonlit lotus pond.
From a biological wonder to a cultural symbol, the lotus has always bridged nature and humanities. This ancient yet vibrant plant is rejuvenating through modern technology, continuing its legend in the fields of ecological protection and health industries. When we stop by the lotus pond, we not only admire the beauty of nature but also reflect on the wisdom of life.