Common Names: Sacred Lotus, Indian Lotus, Bean Of India
Species: Nelumbo nucifera
Family: NELUMBONACEAE
Despite being the national flower of both India and Vietnam (White and Pink flowered varieties respectively), the Sacred Lotus is also a native of Northern Australia. While often used as a large, attractive feature plant in water gardens, the Sacred Lotus tubers, young leaves, flowers and seeds can also be eaten making this both a very beautiful and useful plant.