Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic genus of aquatic plants: A genus in the plant family Nelumbonaceae, comprising the species commonly known as lotuses. These are perennial, aquatic plants known for their large, distinctive flowers that rise above the water surface on long stalks, and their large, shield-shaped leaves. The genus includes species like Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus) and Nelumbo lutea (American lotus).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The beautiful pink flowers belong to the genus Nelumbo.
  • Botanists study genus Nelumbo for its unique seed longevity.
  • The water garden featured several plants, most notably from genus Nelumbo.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical classification: The term is used in scientific contexts to specify the taxonomic group distinct from other water lilies (Nymphaea) or the Indian lotus (often referred to simply as "lotus").
  • The phylogenetic analysis confirmed the placement of genus Nelumbo in its own family, Nelumbonaceae.

Variants and Related Words

• Nelumbo (n): The abbreviated, more common form of the genus name.
  • The seeds of Nelumbo can remain viable for centuries.
• Nelumbonaceae (n): The plant family to which genus Nelumbo belongs.
• Lotuses (n, common name): The common name for plants within genus Nelumbo.

Synonyms

• Lotus genus: A less formal synonym referencing the common name of the plants within this taxonomic group.

Noun

1. sometimes placed in the family Nymphaeaceae: lotuses