Lotus — The Grace and Wisdom of the Water Fairy
On the surface of a summer pond, a touch of elegance sways gently in the breeze — the lotus. Since ancient times, the lotus has been regarded as a symbol of purity and grace. Her beauty lies not only in her form and colour but also in her inseparable bond with water. Throughout her life, from sprouting to full bloom, she has never once left the embrace of water. Water is her home, her nourishment, and the stage upon which her life unfolds.
The lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, originates from the tropical and temperate regions of Asia and is a perennial aquatic herb. Her rhizome — the lotus root — lies hidden in the mud at the bottom of the water, sturdy and ivory-white, firmly anchoring the plant in place. From the rhizome, leaf stalks and flower stems rise straight through the water’s surface, reaching for the sunlight and air. The broad green leaves are coated with a natural waxy layer, giving them remarkable water-repellent properties. Even in heavy rain, droplets can only bead and roll upon the surface, shimmering before falling back into the pond. This constant companionship with water sets the lotus apart from other flowers — she does not rely on water occasionally but entrusts her entire life to it.
The presence of water is irreplaceable for the lotus. Her roots must be submerged for extended periods to absorb sufficient nutrients and sustain vigorous growth. Without water, she will wither quickly and cannot survive. The ideal water depth for her is typically between thirty and sixty centimetres; too shallow, and she risks drying out, too deep, and her flower stems may struggle to rise above the surface. Clear water with balanced nutrients allows the lotus to bloom with vibrant colours and perfect form, while murky water, overloaded with impurities, can breed disease and pests that mar her beauty. Thus, people often call the lotus the “water fairy” — not only because she stands gracefully upon the water, but also because of the natural harmony and intimacy between her and her aquatic world.
As the seasons change, the lotus reveals different faces. In spring, the lotus roots, which have slept through the winter, quietly sprout beneath the mud. Tender shoots reach upwards, unfurling small leaves that gradually spread across the water’s surface. In midsummer, the lotus reaches her most dazzling moment of the year. Broad green leaves fill the pond, while pink and white blossoms open in succession, their delicate fragrance wafting across the water. Autumn arrives, and the petals drift away, leaving behind green seed pods, each filled with plump lotus seeds that may be eaten or saved for planting. In winter, the stems and leaves above ground wither, while the lotus root rests quietly below, waiting for spring’s warmth to awaken her once more.
In Chinese culture, the lotus holds a place of honour, celebrated as the “gentleman among flowers” and symbolising integrity, resilience, and freedom from worldly stains. The Song dynasty scholar Zhou Dunyi praised her in On the Love of the Lotus: “She emerges from the mud unstained, and bathes in clear water without being seductive,” a tribute to her noble character. Beyond literature, the lotus is one of the Seven Treasures in Buddhism, representing purity, enlightenment, and awakening. From ancient ink paintings, ceramics, and embroidery to modern photography and design, the lotus has remained an enduring muse for artists.
In Hong Kong, summer lotus viewing is a unique pleasure. At dawn, a visit to Lam Tsuen Wishing Square in Tai Po, the Lotus Garden in Sheung Shui, or the Tai Po Waterfront Park reveals ponds brimming with green leaves and blooming flowers. The water mirrors the blue sky and drifting clouds, while a gentle breeze stirs the blossoms. At this hour, the lotus glistens with dewdrops, sparkling in the morning light, releasing a delicate fragrance that soothes the heart.
For those wishing to grow lotus at home, the first thing to understand is her profound dependence on water. Choose a wide-mouthed tub or deep pot filled with rich clay soil, allowing the rhizomes space to stretch. At planting, keep the water depth around ten to fifteen centimetres, gradually increasing to thirty centimetres or more as the leaves mature. The lotus thrives in abundant sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct light daily for healthy growth. Water quality must remain clear; change part of the water every two weeks to prevent stagnation, but avoid replacing it all at once to prevent shock to the plant.
Beyond her ornamental charm, the lotus offers rich culinary and medicinal benefits. Lotus seeds are sweet and mild, often used in soups and desserts for their nourishing and calming effects. The lotus root is crisp and naturally sweet, delicious whether eaten raw in salads, cooked in soups, or fried. Lotus leaves are valued for their cooling and detoxifying properties, making lotus leaf tea a refreshing summer drink. The lotus, therefore, is beautiful not only in form but also in substance and utility.
Ultimately, the beauty of the lotus lies in her unbreakable bond with water. Water is her foundation, her sustenance, and her protection, enabling her to stand tall and pure in the heat of summer. Gazing upon a pond of lotus blossoms, one might come to understand a truth about life — that even when rooted in the mud, it is possible to remain pure and graceful, unsullied by the surroundings. If the opportunity arises, one should visit a lotus pond, watch the interplay of flowers and ripples, and feel the timeless connection between this water fairy and the water that gives her life.
