Sacred Lotus

Description

Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) belongs to the Nelumbonaceae family and is native to Asia. It thrives in Ponds, Lakes, Slow rivers, Temperate tropical wetlands environments across regions including India, China, Japan, Southeast Asia.

Botanically, Sacred Lotus is sacred plant. Seeds crunchy nuts. Roots vegetable. Leaves wrap food.. It is also known locally as Kamala.

The edible parts include Seeds, Roots, Young leaves. With an edibility rating of 8/10, it ranks as an excellent wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August, July, June, May and September.

Nutritionally, Sacred Lotus stands out for its Vitamin K (18.0mg, 15% DV), Vitamin C (10.0mg, 11% DV) and Magnesium (39.0mg, 9% DV). It also provides 3.1g protein and 3.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Sacred Lotus offers a Crunchy nutty starchy flavor profile. Seeds raw roasted roots stir-fry leaves wrap. Common culinary applications include seeds raw, roots stir-fry, leaf wrap. Popular preparations include Lotus root stir-fry, Lotus seeds, Lotus leaf rice, Toasted seed snack.

For storage, roots 3d Seeds dried years.

Safety note: No toxicity. Antinutrient content is starch high. Safe lookalike species include Water lily. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect sacred lotus during May, Jun, Jul, Aug and Sep. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically ponds, lakes, slow rivers, temperate tropical wetlands. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional Asia communities have long valued sacred lotus as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, sacred lotus pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

seeds raw, roots stir-fry, leaf wrap

Storage

Roots 3d Seeds dried years

Recipes

• Lotus root stir-fry
• Lotus seeds
• Lotus leaf rice
• Toasted seed snack
• Seed flour bread
• Seed dressing granola
• Stir-fried Sacred Lotus
• Sacred Lotus tempura

Where It Grows