The white lotus is a beautiful and pure aquatic flower that fits many design styles. Let’s explore the meaning of the white lotus, as well as tips on how to grow and arrange it captivatingly.
1 About the White Lotus
The white lotus, with the scientific name Nelumbo lutea, is an aquatic plant belonging to the Lotus family. This flower is easy to grow and care for. It boasts a pure white color, with an average stem length of 1.5 to 2 meters, and its roots can spread horizontally up to 3 meters underwater. The rhizome of the white lotus is white, spongy, and has air holes in the center.
The white lotus belongs to the Lotus family, with the scientific name Nelumbo lutea
The leaves of the white lotus, like other lotuses, are umbrella-shaped and symmetrical, with an average length of 30-55 cm and a width of 20-30 cm. The leaf blades are smooth and shiny. White lotuses typically grow in the mud of ponds, lakes, and rivers, but nowadays, they are also cultivated in landscapes with large areas or in ornamental pots.
2 The Noble Meaning of the White Lotus
The white lotus embodies nobility, purity, and elegance, and it also holds a deeper symbolic significance.
In Marital and Romantic Relationships
In the context of marital love and romantic relationships, the white lotus symbolizes fidelity, nobility, solemnity, and respect. It represents not only the depth of affection but also the commitment to faithfulness and mutual respect between partners.
The white lotus symbolizes fidelity, nobility, solemnity, and respect
In Feng Shui
In the practice of Feng Shui, the white lotus, being white, is associated with the Water element, and it also corresponds with the Metal element. The green leaves represent the Wood element, and the fact that it grows in mud relates to the Earth element. This combination creates a balance, making it favorable for those with the aforementioned elemental signs to grow white lotuses at home to attract wealth and positive energy, or to counter negative influences. It is especially beneficial for those with Water and Metal elemental signs to cultivate this type of lotus.
In Buddhism
The white lotus holds a special significance in Buddhism. Its pristine white color and dignified appearance represent enlightenment and detachment from worldly desires. It symbolizes a pure heart that remains untainted by the gossip and conflicts of the mortal world.
In Social Relationships
While the white color of the lotus conveys purity and immaculateness, the phrase “Bạch Liên Hoa” in Sino-Vietnamese can ironically refer to individuals who appear virtuous and innocent on the outside but harbor deceitful and malicious intentions within. This is akin to the English expression “a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
3 When to Give White Lotus Flowers as a Gift
White lotus flowers can be given as a gift on any occasion
Given its multifaceted symbolism, the white lotus is an appropriate gift for various occasions, including March 8th, October 20th, birthdays, and anniversaries. A bouquet of pure white lotuses, with their subtle fragrance, can serve as a pledge of commitment in a romantic relationship or as a token of filial piety to one’s parents.
Buying white lotus flowers for yourself to decorate your home is also a wonderful idea
In addition to special occasions, you can also buy white lotus flowers for yourself to decorate your home and workspace.
4 How to Grow and Care for White Lotus Flowers
You can cultivate white lotus flowers at home for ornamental purposes and also to harvest the rhizomes for culinary use. Here is a guide on how to grow and care for them.
Growing White Lotus Flowers
Materials for Growing White Lotus Flowers
- Lotus seeds
- A planter
- Water
- Loamy soil
Steps to Grow White Lotus Flowers
Step 1: Choose seeds with a brown or black glossy shell, preferably freshly harvested ones, as they have a higher germination rate.
Step 2: Using a knife or scissors, make a small incision at one end of the seed to expose the embryo, which will help it germinate and develop roots faster.
Basic steps for growing white lotus flowers
Step 3: Soak the seeds in a bowl of warm water at 30°C. Change the water every two days.
Step 4: Once the seeds have sprouted and the embryo has emerged, carefully cut away half of the seed coat, being careful not to damage the embryo. Continue soaking the seeds in water until they develop into seedlings.
Step 5: When the seedlings reach a height of about 10 to 15 cm, transfer them to a planter containing soil and water. The water level should be such that it covers about half the height of the planter.
Caring for White Lotus Flowers
White lotus flowers are not only easy to grow but also straightforward to care for. Just remember to maintain a constant water level in the planter, especially during hot and dry seasons when evaporation is higher. When adding water, pour it gently to avoid splashing water onto the leaves.
Avoid placing your white lotus in direct, intense sunlight
Avoid placing your white lotus in direct, intense sunlight. You can add NPK fertilizer after transferring the seedlings to the planter to promote their growth. If the leaves turn yellow, apply a small amount of fertilizer, and if you notice any leaf-eating insects, cut off the affected leaves.
Add some pondweed or other aquatic plants to the planter to help keep the water clear.
5 How to Arrange White Lotus Flowers Beautifully
Step 1: To create a beautiful arrangement, start by choosing a vase that suits your taste.
Step 2: Cut the stems of the flowers to the desired length to make arranging them easier.
Step 3: Place the flowers in the vase, spreading them out to create a pleasing composition. Adjust the arrangement until you are satisfied with the result.
Arrange the flowers according to your preference, but remember to change the water regularly to keep them fresh
Notes for Arranging Lotus Flowers
Do not place the vase of freshly cut lotus flowers near a ceiling fan or in an air-conditioned room.
Change the water regularly to prevent the buildup of algae and moss, which can affect the freshness of the flowers.
If any of the flowers in the vase start to wilt, remove them immediately to prevent them from affecting the other flowers.
6 Where to Buy White Lotus Flowers and Their Price
Where to buy white lotus flowers and their price
You can find white lotus flowers at flower shops or flower markets, and sometimes even from street vendors. The price usually ranges from 80,000 to 100,000 VND per bouquet.
If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can also order white lotus flowers from online flower shops, although the prices may be higher, and you will have to factor in delivery charges.
7 Beautiful Images of White Lotus Flowers
Beautiful images of white lotus flowers
Beautiful images of white lotus flowers
Beautiful images of white lotus flowers
Beautiful images of white lotus flowers
The information shared above sheds light on the meaning and beauty of the white lotus, as well as provides practical tips on how to grow and arrange this exquisite flower.
