The Lotus or waterlily is an aquatic plant of Nymphaea with broad floating leaves and bright fragrant flowers that grow only in shallow waters. The leaves and flowers float and have long stems that contain air spaces. Lotus is the national flower of India. It occupies a significant place in Indian mythology. It is associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. It symbolizes purity, beauty and everything that is good. The lotus is generally found in white or pink colours but blue flowers are also not unknown. The lotus is sacred for the Buddhists according to Buddhist legends.

By Pradeep Kanakarajan and Kumar Periasamy