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Nelumbo lutea
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. The petioles of the leaves may extend as much as 2 m (6.6 ft) and end in a round leaf blade 33–43 cm (13–17 in) in diameter. Mature plants range in height from 0.8 to 1.5 m (2.6 to 4.9 ft). Flowering begins in late spring and may continue into the summer. The specific name means "yellow" in Latin and refers to the flowers, which may be white to pale yellow. The flowers measure 18–28 cm (7.1–11 in) in diameter and have 22-25 petals. (information from Wikipedia)
I'll add a few photos soon once the flowers have popped open and are in full bloom.
Spotted on May 31, 2012
Submitted on Jun 2, 2012
2 Comments
Thanks, Emma. I think the leaves are a great place to find other organisms. Unfortunately, I can only access the ones closest to the bank, but they are often carrying invertebrates and amphibians.
great info. i have often seen dragon fly larva on the leaves.