History Behind the Scientific Name of Lotus

Scientific name of the Lotus is Nelumbo nucifera. The word lotus has been used in different culture and civilizations like Egyptian, Indus and Greek civilization. In all these culture it is associated as symbol of purity, beauty, and spirituality. The Egyptian word for lotus is “seshen” or “sheshen,” which indicates both the blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) and the white lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). In Sanskrit, the word for lotus is “padma,” and symbolising purity, beauty, and spiritual enlightenment. There are mainly two types of lotus plant, that are as follows

Nelumbo nucifera (Sacred Lotus): It is native to Asia, including countries like India, China, and Southeast Asia where it has cultural and religious significance. It symbolizes purity and spiritual enlightenment. The other name for this species of lotus is Indian or Asian lotus.The leaves of lotus are round and can grow to several feet in diameter. The flowers are large and vary in colors, from white and pink to red.

Nelumbo lutea (American Lotus or Yellow Lotus): It is native to North America and have cultural importance among certain indigenous tribes in North America. It is most commonly found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It have round floating leaves and large flowers that either pale yellow or cream.

Scientific name of Lotus: Nelumbo nucifera is scientific name of the Lotus. Lotus belongs to the family Nelumbonaceae. The lotus is a perennial plant that often grows in ponds and lakes. It is known by different names like sacred lotus, Laxmi lotus, and Indian lotus. It has round leaves with a waxy coating that floats on the water’s surface. Lotus have deep cultural, religious, and symbolic significance in different regions of the world.