Nelumbo Nucifera: LOTUS

Lotus is often mistaken as waterlily or the other way around. I, too, made the same mistake calling the waterlily in my garden as lotus. Though both kinds of flowers grow in water garden, they are entirely different plants.

The seed head in the middle is distinct to lotus flowers. It's one thing I look for to be sure it's lotus and not waterlily. It surely stands out and you wouldn't miss it.

The lotus seeds are edible and the seed head, when dried, is popularly used in flower arrangements.

Lotus is an important plant in Thailand which is a predominantly Buddhist country.According to legend, Buddha was born with the ability to walk and lotus flowers bloomed everywhere he stepped.

Aside from its religious importance, lotus is also a useful plant. The buds are sold everywhere to be used as offerings to Buddhist altars. The flowers, seeds, and roots are all edible, and the petals are often used as garnishing. A lotus leaf, which can grow as big as 60cm in diameter, is used as a wrap for food.

This week, I made some changes in my garden. I already have a spot for my future lotus plant. I can't wait to behold a lotus blooming in my own garden.

Exotic Orchids

Thailand is known for it's beautiful orchids. Here's sharing some of the photos I took during an Orchid Exhibit.









I have some orchids blooming in my garden these days but I thought I would wait until all buds are open. Also, my garden doesn't do well these days because of flooding. I hope I could go back to my normal gardening routine soon!

My Rose of Sharon is Blooming But.....

I finally have my first bloom! After months of waiting, my Rose of Sharon is now flowering but we are expecting a flash flood as the major river in our city is overflowing and heavy rain is expected. We have secured the house and I only hope that the flood would not be as bad as expected so my garden will be safe.

I would like to ask for your prayer for my host country, Thailand. Many of the provinces are now submerged in water and major roads are impassable. This weekend, the capital city, Bangkok, where I live, is expected to be hit hard by flash flood.

Although, I care for my garden but I care more for the millions of families that are affected.

Thank you for you prayers.