Choosing the Right Lotus for Your Home

There is something undeniably magical about a water garden. Whether you have a sprawling backyard in the suburbs or a sunny balcony in the city, adding an aquatic plant can instantly transform your space into a personal sanctuary. But when it comes to choosing the right lotus for your home, things can get a little tricky.

Are you looking for the towering majesty of a Sacred Lotus, or do you actually want the serene float of a Water Lily? Believe it or not, they aren't the same plant! Before you start digging a pond or buying a patio bowl, let's break down the best options for your specific lifestyle and climate.

Explore Our Interactive Lotus Finder

We’ve compiled a list of the most popular varieties found right here in the US and abroad. Use the tool below to toggle between "True Lotuses" (which rise high above the water) and "Water Lilies" (which float on the surface) to see which one speaks to you.

Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

Now that you've browsed the varieties above, you need to match the plant to your space. In the US, we have vastly different growing zones, so picking the right hardy plant is key.

1. The Apartment Dweller: Bowl Lotus

If you are in a city like New York or Chicago and only have a small balcony, you don't need a massive pond. Look for dwarf varieties like the "Momo Botan" (found in our interactive list under 'True Lotuses'). These are bred to thrive in pots as small as 12 inches wide. They bring that classic lotus aesthetic without taking up your whole patio.

2. The Suburban Oasis: American Lotus

If you have a backyard pond in the Midwest or the South, the native Nelumbo lutea (American Lotus) is a fantastic choice. It’s incredibly hardy and can survive freezing winters as long as the tubers in the mud don't freeze solid. Plus, its yellow blooms are a showstopper for summer barbecues.

3. The Indoor Enthusiast: Tropical Water Lilies

Want something indoors or for a heated sunroom? The "Blue Lotus" (actually a water lily) loves warm water. Just remember, these guys need a lot of light—usually a grow light if you are keeping them inside during a gloomy winter.

Quick Care Tips for US Growers

• Sun is Life: Most lotuses need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. If you put them in the shade, they might grow leaves, but they won't bloom.
• Heavy Feeders: Lotuses are hungry plants! Use aquatic plant fertilizer tablets once a month during the growing season (usually May through August).
• Don't Drown the Baby: When you first plant a tuber, keep the water shallow (about 2-4 inches above the soil). As the plant grows taller, you can raise the water level.