Aquatic Plants · Rare Species · Growing Guide

How to Grow Komarov Lotus from Seed
— Complete Guide

Nelumbo komarovii is the world's coldest-hardy lotus — a living relic found only in Russia's Far East. Full germination guide, care tips, and where to buy authentic seeds.

DifficultyModerate

Germination3–7 days

First bloomYear 2–3

HardinessZone 4–10

SALE:
-40%

Seeds of Nelumbo komarovii — Komarov Lotus, 5 PCS fresh seeds

SKU: V2b

€5,00 €8,33

Detailed Buy

What Is Komarov Lotus — and Why Is It So Rare?

Komarov Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera var. komarovii) is a perennial aquatic plant and a direct descendant of Tertiary-era flora — plants that survived the Ice Age and exist essentially unchanged for millions of years. It is the northernmost lotus species on Earth, growing naturally only in the wetlands of Russia's Primorsky Krai, near the permafrost boundary.

Unlike tropical lotus varieties, Komarov Lotus has adapted to cold winters and short growing seasons. This makes it one of the very few lotuses that can survive in temperate and even cool climates. Its flowers reach up to 30 cm across, with petals shifting from deep pink to soft blush over three days.

 Why collectors prize it: Komarov Lotus is listed as a rare relict species. Authentic seeds from its native habitat are extraordinarily difficult to source. Most plants sold under this name are standard tropical varieties — not the genuine cold-hardy species.
    

At a Glance

Flower size Up to 30 cm

Cold tolerance Hardiest lotus

Native range Russian Far East

Water depth 40–80 cm

Min. germination temp 25°C water

Plant height Up to 200 cm

How to Grow Komarov Lotus from Seed — Step by Step

Lotus seeds are extremely long-lived — specimens over 1,000 years old have germinated. Fresh seeds give the best results. Follow these steps carefully.

Scarify the seed coat

The hard seed coat prevents water absorption. Use fine sandpaper or a nail file to lightly abrade one end of the seed until you see a slightly lighter layer. Do not cut through to the interior. Without scarification, seeds will not germinate — this step is mandatory.

Soak in warm water (28–32°C)

Place scarified seeds in a glass of warm water. Change water daily. Within 3–5 days seeds will swell and a small sprout emerges. Seeds that stay hard after 7 days were not scarified enough — re-file and soak again.

Move to a warm, sunny container

Transfer sprouted seeds to a bowl with 5–10 cm of water in full sun. Air temperature must stay above 25°C — use a heat mat if needed. Tiny leaves emerge within 1–2 weeks. Never let the seedling dry out.

Plant in clay or loam soil

Press the rhizome gently into heavy clay or loam (not potting mix — it floats). Use a container without drainage holes. Cover soil with 3–5 cm of water initially, gradually increasing depth as the plant grows.

Transfer to pond (40–80 cm water depth)

The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. In cold climates, move the container indoors or below the freeze line before temperatures drop below 5°C. The rhizome is hardy but young plants are more vulnerable.

Wait for first bloom (Year 2–3)

Komarov Lotus typically flowers in its second or third year from seed, in late July. Flowers last 3 days: petals are darkest on day 1, fully open on day 2, and gently drop on day 3. Blooms in the morning, closes by midday.

Komarov Lotus vs Other Lotus Species

Feature	Komarov Lotus ★	Tropical N. nucifera	American Lotus
Cold hardiness	Zone 4–10 ❄️	Zone 8–12	Zone 5–11
Flower color	Deep pink → blush	Pink / white / red	Pale yellow
Flower size	Up to 30 cm	15–25 cm	15–25 cm
Native climate	Subarctic / temperate	Tropical	Temperate N. America
Collector rarity	Extremely rare	Common	Uncommon

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping scarification

The single biggest reason seeds fail. The lotus seed coat is among the hardest in the plant kingdom. Even weeks in water won't help an unscarified seed.

Using potting compost

Organic-rich substrates float and cloud the water, suffocating roots. Use heavy clay or loam only. Add a thin layer of gravel on top to anchor the soil.

Starting too early in spring

Water temperature below 20°C stalls growth and increases rot risk. Wait until water consistently stays above 24°C before transplanting outdoors.

Buying mislabeled tropical lotus

Many sellers label standard tropical Nelumbo nucifera as "Komarov Lotus." The genuine species grows only in Russia's Far East. If there's no specific botanical provenance — be cautious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Komarov Lotus survive winter outdoors in Europe?

Yes, in many parts of Europe. It is the most cold-hardy lotus and can survive if the rhizome does not freeze solid. In zones 5–7, move the container to a frost-free garage before hard frost. In zones 8+, it overwinters outdoors without protection.

How deep does the water need to be?

Established plants prefer 40–80 cm above the soil. Seedlings start in just 5–10 cm, gradually increasing depth. Too much depth early exhausts the plant's energy reserves.

When will it flower for the first time?

Typically in the second or third growing season from seed. Mass blooming happens in late July — usually the third week of the month. Flowers open in the morning and close by midday.

Is the plant edible?

Yes, the entire plant is edible — rhizomes, seeds, leaves, and flowers. Seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or dried. The rhizome is used in Asian cuisine much like other lotus varieties.

Can I grow it in a container without a pond?

Absolutely. A large container — at least 60 cm wide and 50 cm deep — filled with clay soil and water works well. Many collectors grow Komarov Lotus in large decorative tubs on terraces.

What is the difference between Nelumbo komarovii and Nelumbo nucifera?

Komarov Lotus is a cold-adapted variety of Nelumbo nucifera, native only to Russia's Far East. The key practical difference: it survives winters that would kill standard Nelumbo nucifera, making it the only lotus suitable for temperate climates.

Buy Authentic Komarov Lotus Seeds

Fresh seeds harvested from the native range in Russia's Far East.
Shipped worldwide · Growing instructions included.