Volée
Nelumbo lutea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
24"–72" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American lotus is a large aquatic perennial with dramatic round leaves that can reach 2 feet across and fragrant yellow flowers in summer. This native water plant requires consistently wet conditions and is typically grown in ponds, water gardens, or bog areas. The plant dies back completely in winter and emerges from underwater rhizomes in late spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Volée takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires pond or water feature installation
- Very large spreading habit can appear uncontrolled
- Completely dormant in winter leaving empty water space
Wildlife value
The large flowers attract native bees and beetles during summer blooms. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and the large leaves offer shelter for aquatic wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Volée fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.