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Nelumbo nucifera, known by a number of names including Indian lotus, sacred
lotus, bean of India, or simply lotus, is a plant in the Nelumbonaceae family.
Botanically, Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn.) may also be referred to by its former
names, Nelumbium speciosum or Nymphaea nelumbo.
This plant is an aquatic perennial. Under favorable circumstances its seeds may
remain viable for many years, with the oldest recorded lotus germination being
from that of seeds 1300 years old recovered from a dry lakebed in northeastern
China.
Lotus root is an underwater Asian root vegetable, with a shape similar to a long
squash, which may grow up to four feet in length. The reddish brown covered root
should be peeled before using, uncovering a white, lacy looking interior with
hollow areas running the length of the root. It has a sweet taste and crunchy
texture, which is maintained when cooked.
The lotus effect refers to the very high water repellency (superhydrophobicity)
exhibited by the leaves of the lotus flower.
This effect can easily be demonstrated in many other plants, for example
tropaeolum, cane and columbine, and on the wings of certain insects.
Three main variations are known: blue lotus, white lotus and Indian lotus