Empress Lotus
Best statement piece for pond owners seeking dramatic, tall floral displays.
The Empress Lotus is a spectacular aquatic plant, celebrated for its pure white blooms dramatically tipped with bold purple splashes. This tall lotus variety reaches over 4 feet in height, showcasing impressive 10-inch blooms that create a stunning visual focal point in any pond. It thrives in full sun and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 and above. The Empress Lotus is a perennial, offering a breathtaking display year after year. It requires a 20-inch pot and a water depth of 10-14 inches, making it an ideal choice for water garden enthusiasts seeking dramatic beauty.
$79.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
408
/ 955
#408 in Aquatic Plants
Price vs Category Average
+331%
Above average
Cultivar name
Nelumbo nucifera ‘Dan Sajin’
/ Nelumbo nucifera ‘Dan Sajin’
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a dramatic focal point for their water feature
- Plant lovers wanting long-lasting floral displays all summer
- Pond owners looking for vigorous and dependable plant varieties
Who should skip it
- Owners of small ponds or limited container gardening spaces
- Novice gardeners lacking experience with precise environmental maintenance
- Residents in cold climates without indoor winter storage options
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Massive ten-inch blooms create an immediate, dramatic focal point for ponds.
Hardiness
Reliable perennial performance across a wide range of climate zones.
Planting Ease
Ready-to-plant tuber format simplifies the initial setup for water gardeners.
Fish Habitat Value
Parasol-shaped leaves provide essential shade and protection for pond inhabitants.
Space Requirements
Requires significant vertical and horizontal space to reach full potential.
Bloom Longevity
Spectacular mid-to-late summer display, though limited to a specific season.
Key Specs
Cultivar name
Nelumbo nucifera ‘Dan Sajin’
Bloom color
Versicolor, White with Purple/Pink
Bloom width
8 - 10 in.
Bloom time
Mid-late Summer
Flower type
Single or Few, less than 20 petals
Recommended pot size
20 in.
Plant height
Tall, 48 in.
Water depth
10 - 14 in.
Features
- Pure white blooms with intense splashes of purple at the petal tips.
- Grows to over 4 feet tall with 10-inch wide blooms.
- Comes as a ready-to-plant tuber with simple planting instructions.
- Features unique, parasol-shaped aerial leaves that provide shade and shelter for fish.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Empress Lotus by Chalily for its exceptional quality and robust growth. Many reviewers highlight receiving healthy, well packaged plants that quickly establish and thrive in their ponds or water features. The vibrant blooms and strong root systems are frequently mentioned, indicating a reliable and rewarding experience for both novice and experienced aquatic gardeners. This ease of successful cultivation, combined with the plant's beauty, makes it a highly regarded choice.
Know before you buy
The Empress Lotus arrives as a ready-to-plant tuber. You should plant it in a 20-inch wide container using heavy garden soil or aquatic planting media, ensuring the tuber is buried securely while keeping the growing tips exposed.
The Empress Lotus requires full sun to thrive and produce its signature 10-inch blooms. Aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best results.
As a perennial suitable for USDA zones 4 and above, the lotus can remain outdoors in many climates. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, ensure the tuber is kept below the pond's freeze line or moved to a protected area during the dormant season.
For optimal growth, place your 20-inch pot in a water depth of 10 to 14 inches. This depth provides the necessary stability and temperature regulation for the plant to reach its full 4-foot height.
Yes, the Empress Lotus features large, parasol-shaped aerial leaves that grow above the water surface. These leaves create natural shade and provide essential shelter for fish, helping to keep the water cooler and offering protection from predators.
The Empress Lotus typically blooms during mid-to-late summer. Because it is a perennial, you can expect this display to return each year once the plant is established.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$80