Tag #47097 - Wonders of America-Largest Flower

American lotus is an emergent aquatic

plant. It grows in lakes and swamps, as

well as areas subject to flooding. The

roots are anchored in the mud, but the

leaves and flowers emerge above the

water's surface.

 Physical Characteristics

Leaves: 

Disk-shaped;

Centrally shield-shaped;

Floating;

Up to 2.75 feet in diameter;

Flowers: 

One flower; Pale-yellow in color;

Up to 10 inches wide;

20+ sepals and petals;

Fruit: 

Nut-like;

Does not split open to release seeds

when ripe;