The American Lotus Flower - Nelumbo lutea (nay-LUM-bo LOO-tee-uh.). While visiting East Harbor State Park we noticed many shallow water areas where the lotus was growing. The root of the American Lotus was used as a food source by Native Americas. The seeds and immature leaves are also edible.

The leaves of the lotus stand up off the water as well as float on the surface.

The flowers only bloom for two days.