When lotus (Nelumbo) leaves lift off the surface of the water, it means that the flower buds can’t be too far behind---that’s my story anyway! I love the huge round leaves of this hardy water plant. They make a wonderful contrast to linear foliage, such as the white bulrush (Scirpus), shown, as well as the smaller leaf pads of hardy water lilies (Nymphaea). Another beautiful characteristic of lotus leaves is their ability to capture water into beadlike drops that pool and break like liquid mercury.
