The lotus flower is a revered aquatic plant known for its beauty, symbolism, and resilience. There are many different types of lotus flowers, each varying in petal colour, size, and growth patterns.
From the well-known Sacred Lotus to the American Lotus, these flowers hold cultural and spiritual significance across the world.
This article explores 50 lotus varieties, highlighting their distinct characteristics and what makes each one special.
1. Asiatic Lotus
Originating from Asia, the Asiatic Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is renowned for its large, captivating flowers and vibrant green, floating leaves.
The blossoms typically display a harmonious blend of white and pink petals, creating a serene and elegant appearance. This variety often grows in clusters along riversides, adding a picturesque touch to aquatic landscapes.
2. Lotus of Golden Wheel
The Lotus of Golden Wheel is cherished for its delicate beauty. Its flowers feature pristine white petals encircling a prominent yellow centre, reminiscent of a golden wheel.
The light green foliage complements the blossoms, enhancing the plant's overall graceful aesthetic. This variety is also known for its ease of propagation, making it a favourite among gardening enthusiasts.
3. Angel Wings Lotus
The Angel Wings Lotus is distinguished by its substantial, white petals that can reach up to ten inches in diameter.
These impressive blooms exude purity and tranquillity, making them a striking addition to any water garden. Notably, this variety thrives in shallow containers with minimal water, offering versatility for various garden settings.
4. Cherry Lotus
As its name suggests, the Cherry Lotus boasts vibrant cherry-coloured petals. Each flower comprises approximately eighteen petals, forming a captivating display.
Despite its modest size, reaching up to eight inches in diameter, this lotus variety commands attention with its rich hue and compact form, making it ideal for smaller ponds or container gardens.
5. American Lotus
Native to North America, the American Lotus is notable for its large, fragrant yellow flowers, which can span up to ten inches across.
The plant features distinctive blue-green, circular leaves that can grow up to two feet wide and are known for their water-repellent properties. This hardy species thrives in full sun and loamy soil, often covering extensive areas in shallow ponds and lakes.
6. Nelumbo 'Hongbian Yudie'
Nelumbo 'Hongbian Yudie' is a striking lotus variety known for its vibrant pink petals that gracefully fade to white at the edges, creating a delicate, butterfly-like appearance.
The name 'Hongbian Yudie' translates to 'Red-Edged Butterfly,' reflecting its enchanting floral display. This medium-sized lotus thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a touch of elegance with its colourful blooms.
7. Nelumbo 'Xiao Gongzhu' (mini)
The 'Xiao Gongzhu,' meaning 'Little Princess,' is a miniature lotus variety perfect for small ponds or container gardening. Despite its petite size, this lotus boasts vibrant pink flowers that stand out against its lush green foliage.
Its compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for urban gardeners or those with limited space, allowing them to enjoy the charm of lotus blossoms without requiring a large water feature.
8. Nelumbo 'High Cotton'
'High Cotton' is a lotus variety that exudes pure white perfection. Its large, multi-petal flowers feature wide outer petals that form a perfect plate, holding more narrow, curled inner petals.
Bright gold stamens surround a lime green receptacle, adding to its unique appearance. This tall lotus, reaching heights of 48 inches or more, is a standout addition to any water garden, symbolising prosperity and success.
9. Nelumbo 'Stellar White'
As the name suggests, 'Stellar White' is celebrated for its pristine white blooms that radiate purity and serenity. The large, cup-shaped flowers rise elegantly above the water, creating a stunning visual contrast against the broad, green leaves.
This variety is ideal for gardeners seeking a classic, timeless addition to their aquatic landscapes, offering a sense of tranquillity and grace.
10. Nelumbo 'Alba Striata'
'Alba Striata,' also known as 'Empress,' is a unique lotus variety distinguished by its white petals adorned with subtle pink stripes. This elegant colouring gives the flowers a delicate, refined appearance, reminiscent of fine porcelain.
The blooms are complemented by large, rounded leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface. 'Alba Striata' adds a touch of sophistication to any pond or water feature, making it a favourite among lotus enthusiasts.
11. Nelumbo 'Jin Hehuan'
Nelumbo 'Jin Hehuan' is a captivating lotus variety known for its vibrant, deep pink petals that gracefully fade to a lighter hue towards the edges. The name 'Jin Hehuan' translates to 'Golden Happiness,' reflecting the joy this bloom brings to any water garden.
This medium-sized lotus thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water features, adding a touch of elegance with its colourful display.
12. Nelumbo 'Angel Wings' (mini)
The 'Angel Wings' lotus is a delightful miniature variety, perfect for small ponds or container gardening. It features pristine white, single-petaled blooms with pointed tips, exuding a sense of purity and tranquillity.
Despite its compact size, 'Angel Wings' is a prolific bloomer, bringing a serene beauty to limited spaces. This variety is well-suited for Singapore's climate, flourishing in warm, sunny conditions.
13. Nelumbo 'Chongban Bayi Lian'
Nelumbo 'Chongban Bayi Lian' is a unique lotus variety distinguished by its double-petaled flowers. The blooms showcase a warm yellow centre, while the outer petals exhibit a delicate pink hue, creating a striking contrast.
This micro lotus can be cultivated in very small pots or bowls, making it an excellent choice for urban gardeners with limited space. Its delicate beauty adds charm to any setting, and it thrives in full sun with adequate water depth.
14. Nelumbo lutea
Nelumbo lutea is native to North America but has found popularity in gardens worldwide. It boasts large, pale yellow flowers that can reach up to 25 centimetres in diameter, making them among the largest flowers in North America.
The blooms are thermogenic, generating heat to attract pollinators such as beetles and medium-sized bees. The plant features bluish-green, circular leaves that can be up to 60 centimetres wide, providing a lush, tropical appearance.
Nelumbo lutea thrives in full sun and is suitable for larger ponds or water gardens, adding a touch of elegance with its impressive size and subtle fragrance.
15. Nelumbo 'Xiwang' (mini)
The 'Xiwang' lotus, meaning 'Hope,' is a charming miniature variety that brings a splash of colour to compact spaces. It features vibrant pink blooms with multiple layers of petals, creating a full and lush appearance.
This petite lotus is ideal for container cultivation, making it perfect for balconies or small gardens. 'Xiwang' thrives in warm climates and requires full sun to produce its abundant, cheerful blossoms.
16. Nelumbo 'Green Maiden'
Nelumbo 'Green Maiden' is a captivating lotus variety known for its delicate, pale green petals that exude a sense of tranquillity and elegance. The blooms are medium-sized, with multiple layers of petals forming a lush, full appearance.
This variety thrives in warm, sunny climates and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a unique hue to the aquatic landscape.
17. Nelumbo 'Ying Ying'
The 'Ying Ying' lotus is celebrated for its vibrant pink petals that gradually fade to a lighter shade towards the edges, creating a beautiful gradient effect.
The flowers are medium-sized and emit a subtle, pleasant fragrance. 'Ying Ying' is a prolific bloomer, making it a favourite among gardeners seeking continuous colour throughout the blooming season. It flourishes in full sun and is ideal for both large and small water features.
18. Nelumbo 'Flavescens'
Nelumbo 'Flavescens' is distinguished by its soft, buttery yellow petals that bring a warm glow to any pond or water garden.
The flowers are large, often reaching up to 20 centimetres in diameter, and are complemented by broad, green leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface. This variety is known for its hardiness and can adapt to various climatic conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardeners.
19. Nelumbo 'Mrs PD Slocum'
'Mrs PD Slocum' is a stunning lotus variety renowned for its large, multi-petaled flowers that transition in colour from deep pink to creamy white as they mature. The blooms can reach up to 25 centimetres in diameter and are accompanied by large, circular green leaves.
This variety is cherished for its extended blooming period, providing vibrant colour throughout the summer months. It thrives in full sun and is suitable for larger ponds and water gardens.
20. Nelumbo 'Moling Qiuse'
Nelumbo 'Moling Qiuse' is a unique lotus variety featuring striking bicoloured petals. The inner petals are a rich, deep pink, while the outer petals display a contrasting pure white, creating a dramatic visual effect.
The flowers are medium-sized and emit a light, pleasant fragrance. 'Moling Qiuse' is well-suited for warm climates and flourishes in full sun, making it an excellent addition to ponds and water gardens seeking a touch of exotic beauty.
21. Nelumbo 'Yu Tang Jin Ma'
Nelumbo 'Yu Tang Jin Ma' is a captivating lotus variety known for its vibrant, deep pink petals that gracefully fade to a lighter hue towards the edges. The name 'Yu Tang Jin Ma' translates to 'Golden Horse in Jade Hall,' reflecting the elegance and nobility this bloom brings to any water garden.
This medium-sized lotus thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water features, adding a touch of sophistication with its colourful display.
22. Nelumbo 'Princess Abby of'
The 'Princess Abby of' lotus is celebrated for its delicate, soft pink petals that exude a sense of grace and serenity. The flowers are medium-sized and emit a subtle, pleasant fragrance.
'Princess Abby of' is a prolific bloomer, making it a favourite among gardeners seeking continuous colour throughout the blooming season. It flourishes in full sun and is ideal for both large and small water features.
23. Nelumbo nucifera
Nelumbo nucifera is native to Asia and Australia. It is renowned for its large, fragrant flowers that can reach up to 35 centimetres in diameter, displaying hues ranging from white to pink. The blossoms rise above the water on strong, leafless stalks, standing as much as 1.8 metres tall.
The plant's distinctive round leaves, which can grow up to 60 centimetres across, are held well above the water surface, adding to its majestic appearance. Beyond its ornamental appeal, Nelumbo nucifera holds significant cultural and religious importance in various traditions.
24. Nelumbo 'Small'
Nelumbo 'Small' is a charming miniature lotus variety perfect for compact spaces or container gardening. Despite its petite size, it boasts vibrant blooms with colours ranging from soft pinks to deep reds. The flowers are complemented by lush green foliage, creating a striking contrast.
This variety is ideal for urban gardeners or those with limited space, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of lotus blossoms without requiring a large water feature.
25. Nelumbo 'Gui Fei Zui Jiu'
The 'Gui Fei Zui Jiu' lotus, translating to 'Drunken Imperial Concubine,' is a unique variety distinguished by its rich, deep red petals that evoke a sense of luxury and opulence.
The large, multi-layered blooms are complemented by broad, green leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface. This lotus thrives in warm, sunny climates and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a dramatic flair to any aquatic landscape.
26. Nelumbo 'Yu Ta Jiugui' (mini)
Nelumbo 'Yu Ta Jiugui', also known as 'Drunken Jade Tower', is a charming miniature lotus variety. It features delicate, double-layered petals with a soft pink hue that deepens towards the centre.
The compact size makes it ideal for small ponds or container gardening, allowing enthusiasts with limited space to enjoy its graceful blooms. This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, making it well-suited for Singapore's tropical climate.
27. Nelumbo 'Princess Kennedy'
'Princess Kennedy' is a captivating lotus variety renowned for its elegant, pure white petals that symbolise purity and serenity. The large, cup-shaped flowers can reach up to 25 centimetres in diameter, creating a striking contrast against the lush, green foliage.
This lotus emits a subtle, pleasant fragrance, enhancing its appeal in ornamental ponds and water gardens. 'Princess Kennedy' flourishes in full sunlight and requires a warm environment to achieve optimal growth and blooming.
28. Nelumbo 'Sing Birdy Sing'
'Sing Birdy Sing' is a unique lotus variety distinguished by its vibrant, deep pink petals that gradually fade to a lighter shade towards the edges. The semi-double flowers are medium-sized, exuding a cheerful and lively appearance reminiscent of a singing bird.
This variety is known for its prolonged blooming period, providing continuous colour throughout the summer months. It thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various water garden settings, making it a delightful addition to any aquatic landscape.
29. Nelumbo 'Taikong Lian 36'
Nelumbo 'Taikong Lian 36' is a remarkable lotus variety featuring striking bicoloured petals. The outer petals are a pristine white, while the inner petals display a vivid pink hue, creating a stunning visual contrast.
The large, full blooms are complemented by broad, green leaves that enhance the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. This variety is well-suited for larger ponds and water gardens, where it can be showcased as a focal point. 'Taikong Lian 36' thrives in warm climates and requires ample sunlight to flourish.
30. Nelumbo 'Feng Wu'
'Feng Wu', translating to 'Dancing Phoenix', is an exquisite lotus variety celebrated for its graceful, ruffled petals that exhibit a delicate pink colour with subtle white undertones.
The medium-sized, double flowers resemble the elegant movements of a dancing phoenix, adding a touch of sophistication to any water garden.
This variety emits a light, pleasant fragrance and is known for its resilience and adaptability to various aquatic environments. 'Feng Wu' prospers in full sun and warm temperatures, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts in tropical regions like Singapore.
31. Nelumbo 'Cranberry Kiss'
Nelumbo 'Cranberry Kiss' is a captivating lotus variety known for its vibrant, deep red petals that resemble the rich hue of cranberries. The large, double blooms create a striking contrast against the lush, green foliage, making it a standout addition to any water garden.
This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, making it well-suited for Singapore's tropical climate. 'Cranberry Kiss' is also appreciated for its subtle, pleasant fragrance that adds an extra layer of sensory delight to its visual appeal.
32. Nelumbo 'Lavender Lady'
The 'Lavender Lady' lotus is celebrated for its delicate, lavender-hued petals that exude a sense of tranquillity and elegance. The medium-sized, cup-shaped flowers rise gracefully above the water, complemented by broad, green leaves that enhance its serene appearance.
This variety features a fibrous root system, essential for its stability and nutrient uptake. 'Lavender Lady' flourishes in full sunlight and warm conditions, making it an excellent choice for ornamental ponds and water features in Singapore.
33. Nelumbo 'Pink-a-licious'
'Pink-a-licious' is a delightful lotus variety distinguished by its vibrant, hot pink petals that make a bold statement in any aquatic setting. The large, semi-double blooms are complemented by lush, green foliage, creating a vivid contrast that enhances its visual appeal.
This variety is known for its robust growth and prolific blooming, providing continuous colour throughout the flowering season. 'Pink-a-licious' thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a splash of lively colour to the landscape.
34. Nelumbo 'Rosea Plena'
Nelumbo 'Rosea Plena' is an exquisite lotus variety renowned for its elegant, double-layered pink flowers that exude a classic charm. The large blooms, often reaching up to 20 centimetres in diameter, are composed of numerous petals that create a lush, full appearance.
The soft pink hue of the petals offers a timeless beauty, making 'Rosea Plena' a favourite among lotus enthusiasts. This variety thrives in full sunlight and warm temperatures, making it ideal for ornamental ponds and water gardens in tropical climates like Singapore.
35. Nelumbo 'Suck-Kyung'
'Suck-Kyung' is a unique lotus variety that stands out with its delicate, pale pink petals that gradually deepen in colour towards the centre. The medium-sized, single blooms are complemented by broad, green leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface.
This variety is appreciated for its subtle beauty and serene presence, making it a lovely addition to any water garden. 'Suck-Kyung' flourishes in full sun and warm conditions, aligning well with Singapore's tropical environment.
36. Nelumbo 'Yonsil'
Nelumbo 'Yonsil' is a captivating lotus variety known for its delicate, soft pink petals that exude a sense of tranquillity and elegance.
The medium-sized, cup-shaped flowers rise gracefully above the water, complemented by broad, green leaves that enhance its serene appearance. This variety flourishes in full sunlight and warm conditions, making it an excellent choice for ornamental ponds and water features in Singapore.
37. Nelumbo 'Gregg Gibson'
The 'Gregg Gibson' lotus is celebrated for its vibrant, deep red petals that create a striking contrast against its lush, green foliage. The large, double blooms are complemented by broad leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface.
This variety is appreciated for its robust growth and prolific blooming, providing continuous colour throughout the flowering season. 'Gregg Gibson' thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a splash of lively colour to the landscape.
38. Nelumbo 'Joyful Baby'
'Joyful Baby' is a delightful miniature lotus variety distinguished by its vibrant, hot pink petals that make a bold statement in any aquatic setting. Despite its petite size, it boasts large, semi-double blooms complemented by lush, green foliage, creating a vivid contrast that enhances its visual appeal.
This variety is known for its robust growth and prolific blooming, providing continuous colour throughout the flowering season. 'Joyful Baby' thrives in full sun and is well-suited for ponds and water gardens, adding a splash of lively colour to the landscape.
39. Nelumbo 'Joseph'
Nelumbo 'Joseph' is an exquisite lotus variety renowned for its elegant, double-layered pink flowers that exude a classic charm. The large blooms, often reaching up to 20 centimetres in diameter, are composed of numerous petals that create a lush, full appearance.
The soft pink hue of the petals offers a timeless beauty, making 'Joseph' a favourite among lotus enthusiasts. This variety thrives in full sunlight and warm temperatures, making it ideal for ornamental ponds and water gardens in tropical climates like Singapore.
40. Nelumbo 'Bonny'
'Bonny' is a unique lotus variety that stands out with its delicate, pale pink petals that gradually deepen in colour towards the centre. The medium-sized, single blooms are complemented by broad, green leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface.
This variety is appreciated for its subtle beauty and serene presence, making it a lovely addition to any water garden. 'Bonny' flourishes in full sun and warm conditions, aligning well with Singapore's tropical environment.
41. Nelumbo 'Eos'
Nelumbo 'Eos' is a captivating lotus variety known for its vibrant, deep pink petals that gracefully fade to a lighter hue towards the edges.
The large, double blooms create a striking contrast against the lush, green foliage, making it a standout addition to any water garden. This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, making it well-suited for Singapore's tropical climate.
42. Nelumbo 'Chawan Basu' (medium)
'Chawan Basu' is a medium-sized lotus variety celebrated for its delicate, cup-shaped flowers. The blooms feature soft pink petals with subtle white undertones, exuding a sense of tranquillity and elegance.
This variety is known for its prolific blooming and compact growth habit, making it ideal for smaller ponds or container gardening. 'Chawan Basu' flourishes in full sunlight and warm conditions, aligning well with Singapore's tropical environment.
43. Nelumbo 'Huohua' (mini)
Nelumbo 'Huohua', translating to 'Fire Flower', is a charming miniature lotus variety. It boasts vibrant red petals that evoke a sense of warmth and energy.
Despite its compact size, 'Huohua' produces abundant blooms, making it a delightful addition to small ponds or container gardens. This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, making it well-suited for Singapore's climate.
44. Nelumbo 'Fen Xia'
'Fen Xia' is an exquisite lotus variety distinguished by its soft pink petals that deepen in colour towards the centre. The medium-sized, double blooms exude a delicate charm, creating a serene atmosphere in any water garden.
'Fen Xia' is appreciated for its extended blooming period and graceful appearance. This variety prospers in full sun and warm climates, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts in tropical regions like Singapore.
45. Nelumbo 'Fen Wanlian'
Nelumbo 'Fen Wanlian', also known as the 'Pink Bowl Lotus', is celebrated for its cheerful and charming blooms. The flowers feature vibrant pink petals that form a bowl-like shape, creating a delightful visual appeal.
This variety is known for its compact size and prolific blooming, making it suitable for small ponds or container gardening. 'Fen Wanlian' thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, aligning well with Singapore's tropical environment.
46. Nelumbo 'Hong Xia'
Nelumbo 'Hong Xia' is a captivating lotus variety known for its vibrant, deep red petals that create a striking contrast against the lush green foliage. The large, double blooms exude a sense of elegance and are complemented by a subtle, pleasant fragrance.
This variety thrives in full sun and warm temperatures, making it well-suited for Singapore's tropical climate. 'Hong Xia' is an excellent choice for adding a bold splash of colour to ponds and water gardens.
47. Nelumbo 'Hong Yuan'
'Hong Yuan' is a distinguished lotus variety featuring soft pink petals that gradually deepen towards the centre, offering a delicate and harmonious appearance. The medium-sized, semi-double flowers are accompanied by broad, green leaves that float gracefully on the water's surface.
This variety is known for its resilience and extended blooming period, providing continuous beauty throughout the season. 'Hong Yuan' flourishes in full sunlight and is ideal for both large and small water features.
48. Nelumbo 'Jin Dieyu'
Nelumbo 'Jin Dieyu' stands out with its unique bicoloured petals, where the inner petals display a rich golden hue, and the outer petals are a pristine white. This striking contrast creates a visually stunning effect, reminiscent of a butterfly's wings, which is reflected in its name 'Dieyu,' meaning 'butterfly jade.'
The medium-sized blooms emit a light, pleasant fragrance and are complemented by vibrant green foliage. 'Jin Dieyu' thrives in warm climates and full sun, making it a captivating addition to any pond or water garden.
49. Nelumbo 'Jin Ma'
'Jin Ma,' translating to 'Golden Horse,' is an exquisite lotus variety characterised by its large, golden-yellow petals that symbolise prosperity and good fortune. The double blooms are lush and full, creating a magnificent display against the backdrop of broad, green leaves.
This variety is cherished for its robust growth and prolific flowering, offering a vibrant spectacle throughout the blooming season. 'Jin Ma' prospers in full sun and warm temperatures, aligning perfectly with Singapore's tropical environment.
50. Nelumbo 'Jin Se'
Nelumbo 'Jin Se' is a remarkable lotus variety featuring soft, creamy yellow petals that exude a sense of serenity and grace. The medium-sized, semi-double flowers are complemented by lush, green foliage, creating a harmonious and soothing visual appeal.
This variety is known for its adaptability and extended blooming period, making it a favourite among gardeners seeking continuous beauty in their water gardens. 'Jin Se' thrives in full sunlight and warm climates, making it well-suited for cultivation in Singapore.
Conclusion About The Different Types Of Lotus Flowers
Lotus flowers are more than just stunning aquatic blooms—they carry deep cultural and spiritual significance across the world. With 50 diverse varieties, ranging from the classic Sacred Lotus to rare and exotic types, these flowers symbolise resilience, beauty, and renewal.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Different Types Of Lotus Flowers
What Are The Main Differences Between Lotus Flowers And Water Lilies?
Many people confuse lotus flowers with water lilies, but they belong to different plant families. Lotus flowers (Nelumbo genus) have leaves and blooms that rise above the water, while water lilies (Nymphaea genus) float on the surface.
Which Lotus Varieties Are Best Suited For Small Ponds Or Containers?
Miniature lotus varieties, such as Xiao Gongzhu Lotus and Angel Wings Lotus, are ideal for small water gardens or container ponds. They require less space and bloom beautifully in controlled environments.
Can You Grow Different Types Of Lotus Flowers In The Same Pond?
Yes, but careful planning is needed. Different varieties require varying water depths and sunlight exposure. Mixing tall and dwarf varieties can create a visually stunning pond.
Is It Possible To Grow Different Types Of Lotus Flowers Indoors?
Yes, miniature lotus varieties can be grown indoors in large containers, provided they receive sufficient sunlight, warm temperatures, and proper water levels.
