Ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and freshwater tidal marshes. Infrequent and local in the Virginia Coastal Plain, Piedmont, and northern mountains
The lotus plants provide a healthy habitat for a wide range of micro and macro organisms. Waterfowl such as mallards, wood ducks consume the acorn-like seeds. The large, umbrella-like leaves shade shallow water and provide crucial structural habitat. They shield small aquatic animals, including immature fish and frog and toad tadpoles, from heat, harsh sun, and predators like wading birds and large fish. Rhizomes are eaten by beavers and muskrats
High Value Generalist
Earth Sangha lists this plant as a "High Value Generalist" because it is easy to grow, occurs across a wide range of habitats and is known to be of high value to wildlife
My Native Garden
Put together a printable/downloadable list of plants that you have in your garden.