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Yellow lotus produces huge, round leaves, usually raised above the water, although in floating leaves are produced in deeper water. The central part of the flower, called the receptacle, forms an inverted cone, in which the pistils are individually imbedded in cavities. At maturity it becomes detached and floats cavity-side down, and the seed-like fruits eventually fall out and sink. They have very hard walls and often do not germinate for years or even decades. When they do germinate, they may rise to the surface, where the floating seedlings are dispersed by wind and current.
The lotus also has an extensive system of underground stems, which produce large tubers. Although this species scarcely spreads at all in the northernmost part of its range, in warmer regions it rapidly forms large colonies.
The common names for Yellow Lotus are American lotus, duck acorn, water nut.
Traditionally Yellow Lotus is a narcotic used for trances and visions. Although this plant is protected in the northern parts of the country, in the south it is considered a weed. This is a rare plant known for its unique incense scent.
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