Top 10 Best Informative Essays on the Lotus Flower

The lotus is supported by a long stem, rising above the water's surface. Its leaves are lush green, covered with a fine white fuzz that sparkles in the sunlight, creating a beautiful, ethereal glow.

The lotus flower is one of the purest and most ancient flowers in Eastern cultures. It is an aquatic plant originating from Asia and holds a significant place in Buddhist traditions. The petals, stamen, and seeds together form a lotus flower with a delicate beauty and bright colors.

The lotus grows in the mud and lives in it, yet rises above to reach for the sun, untouched by the impurities of the mud. Much like a person born into the world, living among life’s struggles, yet transcending greed, anger, and desire without being tainted by the world’s flaws.

In Vietnam, the lotus is part of the 'Four Precious Flowers' (Lan, Sen, Cuc, Mai) and is revered as one of the 'Four Gentlemen' alongside pine, bamboo, and chrysanthemum. The lotus thrives in the tropical climate of Vietnam, and from the North to the South, it blooms everywhere, as familiar as the bamboo and banyan tree. In the North, the lotus blooms only in summer, but in the South, it flourishes year-round. The village where President Ho Chi Minh was born is called 'Sen Village', and the lotus is often compared to the beloved image of President Ho, the father of our nation:

'The most beautiful lotus is in Thap Muoi
And the most beautiful name in Vietnam is Uncle Ho.'

In the hearts of every Vietnamese person, the lotus symbolizes brightness, nobility, and purity, embodying the nation’s spirit. That’s why the lotus has been an endless source of inspiration in literature and art. There’s a famous folk song that every Vietnamese knows:

'In the pond, what’s more beautiful than the lotus
Green leaves, white petals, with yellow stamens in between
The yellow stamen, white petals, green leaves
Near the mud, but it doesn't stink of mud.'

The Vietnamese people recognize the deeper meaning of 'Near the mud but not stained by its smell' – the lotus grows in the mud, but rises above it, radiating its sweet fragrance. The lotus has an incredibly strong vitality, and its essence is purity and innocence. It represents friendliness, grace, and the Vietnamese spirit of rising above all adversity. Especially in Buddhist philosophy, the lotus is highly revered and occupies an important position. The idea of 'living in the world but not tainted by the world' aligns with the lotus’ symbolism, representing moral values, purity, sanctity, and the endurance of Buddhist teachings leading to enlightenment. In Vietnam’s Buddhist architecture, the lotus is a significant artistic symbol. One of the most famous buildings inspired by the lotus is the One-Pillar Pagoda, which, according to legend, was conceived from a dream of Emperor Ly Thai Tong. The pagoda is shaped like a lotus flower, rising from a pond, supported by a single pillar like a lotus stem. Here, the lotus symbolizes enlightenment, achieving purity, and escaping the impurities of the world.

Simple, elegant, and pure, the lotus embodies the character, lifestyle, and soul of the Vietnamese people. It is also a priceless gift from nature, as various parts of the lotus are used for nutritious foods and medicinal purposes. The lotus seed pod, light and spongy, is odorless and has a remarkable ability to stop bleeding, making it a key ingredient in many medicines for treating bleeding disorders and high blood pressure. The lotus seed, small and yellow, is both a common food and an effective remedy for insomnia and nervous exhaustion. The green lotus heart, found in the center of the seed, can be used to infuse tea, adding a delicate fragrance. Dried or fresh lotus leaves, crushed and mixed with water, are consumed daily to help with detoxification. Lotus stems are both a medicinal herb for liver diseases and a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine, offering easy digestion and delicious flavors. In the spring, every household enjoys lotus seed jam, a cultural delicacy that, combined with betel and tea, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I remember my childhood, when my mother would make a pot of lotus seed soup with sugar, fragrant and sweet, cooling and refreshing, a perfect treat after a long day without fear of getting sick. The lotus is indeed a flower that nature has bestowed upon our country, a flower deeply embedded in the cultural identity of our nation.

The Vietnam Airlines chose the image of the six-petal lotus flower as its symbol after much thought and consideration. Perhaps this is the symbol the Vietnamese people wish to present to international friends, showcasing our culture. The lotus, now elevated to the skies, flies around the world, carrying joy, reunification, happiness, and peace, bringing people and communities closer together. To the world, the image of the lotus will remain in the minds of all, symbolizing a heroic, indomitable nation that has endured countless struggles, yet continues to rise and integrate with the world. I am thankful for the lotus called 'Vietnam', spreading its sweet fragrance.

Though time marks the passage of change, I believe that the lotus will always preserve its purity and gentle fragrance, just as the Vietnamese people continue to rise and shine like a lotus greeting the morning sun from the mud. One day, the radiant lotus will bloom amidst a loving life.

'The lotus remains humble and silent
Then one day, it will shine in the sky
From the depths of the muddy earth
Its fragrance fills the air, its beauty never fades.'

The lotus is fragrant, with beauty and color. Regardless of the circumstances, the lotus embodies refinement, purity, and nobility. It is truly the quintessential symbol of Vietnamese culture and humanity.

"What is more beautiful in the pond than the lotus?"
With green leaves, white petals, and golden stamens intertwined.
The golden stamens, white petals, and green leaves.
It grows near the mud but carries none of its foul scent."

This folk poem about the lotus evokes a deep sense of admiration and pride for the flower, symbolizing the soul and character of Vietnam. The lotus is a pure, sacred flower, transcending the earthly realm, and it has become a symbol of Vietnam's spirit and virtue.

The lotus is one of the oldest and most iconic flowers in the East. A water plant native to Asia, it holds a significant and ancient place in various cultures, particularly in Buddhism. The image of the Buddha seated on a fragrant lotus pedestal is synonymous with Buddhism, which has thrived for over 2,500 years—indicating that the lotus has been revered for an even longer time.

If you look at a lotus bloom closely, you will see layers upon layers: the "white petals, golden stamens." The lotus petals resemble the shape of a heart, with the bottom of the heart pointing upwards. Each flower consists of numerous petals stacked upon one another, and as it opens, each layer unfolds to reveal more of the flower's beauty. The petals can be either pink or white, and inside them, the vibrant yellow stamens stand out. As the flower matures, the stamens wither, revealing the seed pod, filled with large seeds. The entire flower is supported by a long stem, which rises above the water. The stem has a unique structure: if you break it open, you will see that its two halves are connected by long fibers, which inspired the poet Nguyễn Du to write: "Though parting, the heart still clings with threads of love." This is why the lotus is also a symbol of loyalty and devotion. The lotus leaves are large, round, and green, with a white velvety coating that sparkles in the sunlight. The lotus, its leaves, and its stem are nourished by the lotus root deep beneath the muddy waters. The lotus grows in the mud, lives in the mud, but rises above it, reaching for the sun without being tainted by the earth. This is exactly what the folk verse means: "It grows near the mud, but it does not carry its stench."

In the rural landscape of Vietnam, the sight of a vast lotus pond is essential. From north to south, the lotus is found everywhere, closely tied to the daily life of the Vietnamese people, just like the bamboo or banyan tree. During the scorching summer heat, when the air feels like fire, people yearn to be near a lotus pond. The refreshing scent of the lotus cools the air and provides relief from the heat. The sight of the pond with its shimmering leaves and radiant flowers feels almost like a dream, and it can refresh the spirit. Playful children may use lotus leaves as hats or ride on buffaloes through the village, creating an idyllic and picturesque scene. The lotus is not just a symbol of beauty; it is also a noble flower. In Vietnam, the lotus is ranked among the four revered flowers of the four seasons: Orchid, Lotus, Chrysanthemum, and Plum, as well as in the company of the "four noble plants" (pine, bamboo, chrysanthemum, and plum). The lotus is used to decorate simple rural homes and adds a touch of elegance to private gardens. The lotus also serves as a tasty and nutritious food. The roots and stems, when cleaned, make a refreshing dish, while the seeds are used in cooking and as medicine. Lotus stamens are even used to scent tea, creating the famous lotus tea. In the early morning, while the dew is still fresh, tea makers row out to the pond, placing tea leaves inside the lotus blossoms and gently tying the flowers to allow the tea to absorb the fragrance. Some go so far as to collect the dew from the lotus flowers and leaves to brew special tea. This shows just how deeply cherished the lotus is by people.

As summer fades, the lotus begins to wither. It thrives only in warm climates, so when autumn and winter come, the lotus retreats into the cold mud, waiting for spring to push new shoots upwards. In the north, the lotus blooms only in summer, while in the south, it blooms year-round. The village where President Ho Chi Minh was born is called Lotus Village, and perhaps the lotus is most beautifully symbolized by him—the beloved father of the nation: "Thap Muoi is the most beautiful lotus, and Vietnam is most beautiful with the name Ho Chi Minh."

Beyond its practical uses, the lotus carries profound philosophical meanings. It grows in the mud yet rises above it, exuding a fragrant and pure aroma. The lotus embodies resilience, purity, and a spirit of rising above adversity, symbolizing the Vietnamese people's strength. In Buddhism, the lotus holds deep significance, representing the idea of "being amidst the world but not tainted by it." It embodies virtues, purity, and holiness. In Buddhist belief, the Buddha was born from a golden lotus. Lotus imagery is also a common motif in Buddhist architecture in Vietnam. A famous example is the One Pillar Pagoda, said to have been inspired by a king's dream of a lotus pedestal. The pagoda’s design mirrors a lotus blooming from a pond with a single pillar resembling a lotus stem. Similarly, in Egypt, the lotus is revered for its purity and holiness. It is the only flower that can bloom in the powerful Nile River, where other flowers are washed away by the strong currents. The lotus, however, grows and flourishes, adding an unmatched beauty to the mystical river.

Vietnam's national airline, Vietnam Airlines, chose the image of a six-petaled lotus as its symbol after much deliberation. It is a symbol that the Vietnamese people wish to share with the world, representing joy, peace, and the unity of nations. The pink lotus has now soared into the sky, spreading across the globe, bringing people closer together. To the world, the lotus symbolizes a heroic nation that, despite facing wars and hardships, continues to rise and embrace global integration.

When Vietnam is mentioned, the image of the graceful áo dài flowing in the wind, accompanied by the conical hat, and lush green hedges instantly comes to mind. And undoubtedly, the lotus flower is never far from these iconic images.

The lotus, known scientifically as Nelumbo Nucifera Gaertn, is one of the oldest seed-bearing plants on Earth. It is native to Asia, originating from India, and later spread to China and parts of Northeast Australia and Europe.

The lotus consists of five main parts: the lotus root, the lotus stem, the lotus stalk, the lotus leaves, and the lotus buds. The cylindrical rhizomes of the plant grow in the mud, and are called lotus roots. The leaves rise above the water, typically about 30 cm in height, with long stems covered in tiny thorns. The leaves themselves are large, round discs, measuring 40-70 cm in diameter, with veins radiating from the center. The lotus flower is large, with many overlapping petals in shades of white, pink, and red. The lotus is a bisexual flower, with many stamens, a two-chambered anther, and a central column that forms a part known as the 'rice grain.' The numerous pistils are housed in a flower receptacle, and the stigma rises slightly above it. The leaves of the lotus are water-resistant, much like those of the taro plant.

There are smaller varieties of the lotus, with both the stem and the flower grown in pots or shallow pools, known as 'sitting lotus' (sen tịch thượng). In countries like India and North America, other types of lotus, such as the yellow lotus, can also be found. The pink lotus is considered the most sacred, often used in temples and palaces. The red lotus symbolizes primal love, while the blue lotus represents wisdom, and the white lotus is the symbol of purity. In Vietnam, the lotus is commonly seen in ponds and lakes, with pink or red varieties being the most prevalent. The Mekong Delta, especially the Tháp Mười region, is famous for its lotus cultivation. This is reflected in the beloved folk verse:

"Tháp Mười is the most beautiful lotus,
And Vietnam is most beautiful with the name of President Ho Chi Minh."

The lotus has deeply integrated into the daily and spiritual lives of the Vietnamese people. The seeds of the lotus are considered a nutritious food, with lotus seed-based dishes like lotus seed soup and lotus seed porridge being particularly popular for their refreshing taste and health benefits. Lotus stems are used to create delicious dishes like lotus stem salad, while dried lotus stems can be boiled to treat nasal inflammation. The lotus leaves are also famously used to wrap the green rice cake (cốm), adding a refreshing fragrance that delights the senses. Lotus has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and health practices.

The lotus also plays a significant role in the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. It is a frequent symbol in Buddhist architecture and in various artifacts, as it embodies the Buddhist concept of "living amidst the world but not tainted by it." The lotus represents integrity, virtue, and the ability to remain uncorrupted by external forces. This is reflected in the popular folk poem:

"What is more beautiful in the pond than the lotus?
With green leaves, white petals, and golden stamens.
The golden stamens, white petals, and green leaves.
It grows near the mud, but it does not carry the smell of the mud."

This image was frequently depicted in the architecture of the Ly and Tran dynasties when Buddhism became the state religion. Another interpretation of the lotus is as a symbol of enlightenment, where a person rises above suffering and stands on it. Today, the lotus continues to serve as a 'cultural ambassador' and as the national flower of Vietnam. You can see lotus flowers embroidered on áo dài, on conical hats, or as the emblem of Vietnam Airlines. The lotus has carried the image of Vietnam and its people to friends around the world. It has also inspired countless poems, songs, and verses that celebrate its beauty. It enriches the spiritual life of the people and remains a symbol of national pride.

From ancient times to the present and into the future, the lotus will always be a part of the daily life and spirit of the Vietnamese people, a source of pride for the people of Vietnam.

The lotus flower has long been an integral part of Vietnamese cultural and spiritual life. It is often compared to the beauty of young Vietnamese women, symbolizing purity, vitality, and the embodiment of simple, unpretentious beauty. As the saying goes:

"What is more beautiful in the pond than the lotus,
With green leaves, white petals, and golden stamens.
The golden stamens, white petals, and green leaves,
It grows near the mud, yet it does not carry the scent of the mud."

As a Vietnamese, everyone is familiar with this folk song and the flower mentioned within it, the lotus—a humble flower that thrives in muddy, stinky water yet still radiates fragrance and beauty. This flower has become an iconic representation of the Vietnamese spirit.

When you think of the lotus, you picture its large, round leaves floating serenely on the water's surface. The stem and stalk of the flower are green, while the lotus buds are oval and green. When the flower blooms, its petals open in shades of vibrant pink with a hint of white. The yellow stamens and pistil are enclosed in the flower's core, releasing a pleasant fragrance. As the petals fall, the lotus pod remains and grows larger, eventually becoming a bowl-shaped structure.

During the harvest season, the fragrance of the lotus wafts through the air, even before reaching the village, mixing with the sweet aroma of glutinous rice, urging one to return home. On the full moon or the first day of the lunar month, the lotus is most popular, symbolizing the pure and simple devotion that descendants offer to their ancestors. The scent of incense intertwined with that of the lotus invokes the sacred and serene. At the end of summer, the lotus flowers wither, leaving behind the large green pods, filled with plump, mature lotus seeds. Every part of the lotus is beneficial to humans. The fragrant petals are used to scent tea. For tea lovers, lotus tea is a must-try, where tea leaves are infused in a lotus flower overnight, or where lotus stamens are mixed with tea leaves for a rich and refreshing flavor. Lotus seed tea (made from the green center of the seed) is also known to effectively treat insomnia.

The young seeds of the lotus are sweet and fragrant, enjoyed as a snack by rural children. Mature seeds are skillfully prepared by mothers into famous dishes: lotus seed dessert (boiled lotus seeds mixed with tapioca flour) is cool and nourishing. A special dish involves simmering lotus seeds in a pork bone broth with shiitake mushrooms, creating a savory, aromatic flavor. This dish was once reserved for royalty and the aristocracy.

When passing by a lotus field, the fragrance of the flowers brings back memories of family and friends, especially the taste of the glutinous green rice wrapped in lotus leaves. On hot summer days, the large lotus leaves also serve as natural hats, offering much-needed relief from the heat. Children herding cows find joy in diving into the pond to harvest lotus stems (the stems and roots buried deep in the mud).

Indeed, the lotus has long been linked with Vietnamese culture and spirituality. It is a symbol of purity and vitality, representing beauty that is unpretentious and rooted in simplicity. Its image has been immortalized in folk songs, where it is compared to the great leader, President Ho Chi Minh:

"Tháp Mười is the most beautiful lotus,
And Vietnam is most beautiful with the name of President Ho Chi Minh."

The lotus is a common motif in decorative items found in cultural landmarks and ancient works of art in Hanoi. The One-Pillar Pagoda, located amidst a lotus pond, is a testament to the flower's importance in Vietnamese culture. Additionally, the lotus is celebrated through the Golden Lotus Award, further underscoring its significance.

In conclusion, the lotus flower is not only beautiful but also plays an essential role in the culture and daily life of the Vietnamese people. It has become an enduring symbol of the nation's purity, elegance, and simplicity, forever tied to the image of the lotus rising from the water and spreading its sweet fragrance in the air.

Running along the S-shaped land of Vietnam, the sight of the lotus is ubiquitous, as it has long been the national flower of the people. Indeed, the lotus, like a young woman, possesses both beauty and grace, symbolizing the elegant nature of the Vietnamese people.

The lotus originally comes from India but has since spread across many countries in Asia. Taking root in Vietnam, it has gained a significant place in the country:

"Tháp Mười is the most beautiful with its lotus Vietnam is most beautiful with Uncle Ho's name."

The lotus thrives in moist environments, often growing in ponds or swamps. With its delicate appearance, it adapts well to both northern and southern Vietnam's climates. While the warm weather of the South allows the lotus to bloom year-round, in the North, it only blooms in the summer. As early summer arrives, lotus ponds are covered with large, vibrant green leaves that act like umbrellas, shading the water beneath. From these leaves, lotus flowers rise. At first, the buds look like little arrows pointing upwards towards the sky. When they absorb enough nutrients from the fertile mud, the buds open to reveal curved petals stacked neatly on top of one another. The soft, velvet-like petals are a pale pink, contrasting beautifully with the bright yellow stamens. The delicate fragrance of the lotus fills the air on hot summer days. The petals and stamens lovingly embrace the tiny pistil at the center. After the lotus wilts, only the green calyx remains, resembling a bowl filled with large seeds, while the petals return to the mud. The lotus can be propagated from its rhizomes, which quickly sprout and bring new life.

Admiring the small lotus flower, few realize that it is willing to sacrifice its life for humankind. A room becomes more refined when adorned with these blossoms. The lotus provides various ingredients for traditional, nourishing dishes. The seeds are sweet and crunchy, a cherished snack of childhood, often found in pots of fragrant lotus soup. The bitter lotus seed heart, although slightly astringent, is a useful remedy for insomnia and, when used to flavor tea, offers a light, refreshing taste. The smooth lotus leaves also enhance the flavor of the traditional 'cốm' dish, giving it a subtle sweetness and unforgettable fragrance.

Growing in aquatic environments, the lotus is resilient and rarely affected by diseases. However, farmers must still monitor for pests that may damage the leaves. There's a saying in folk culture: "Water first, fertilizer second, care third, and good seed fourth," which also applies to lotus cultivation. Regular and balanced fertilization is necessary to increase seed production. Easy to cultivate and care for, the lotus is widely cherished and respected by all who grow it.

Each flower has its own unique meaning. We know the rose symbolizes passionate love, chrysanthemums represent filial piety, and the lotus stands as a symbol of beauty, resilience, and the purity of human character and the nation. "Grown in mud but never tainted by it," the lotus is simple and humble, yet it carries the essence of a noble soul, much like the hardworking farmers of Vietnam. The beauty of the lotus does not demand attention but rather subtly seeps into the bloodline, like its delicate fragrance, which is neither overpowering like orchids nor lilies. The lotus is also deeply rooted in religious significance, often representing the seat of Buddha. For those far from home, the lotus stands as a reminder of their homeland, inspiring strength and resilience. Because of its simplicity and elegance, the lotus has inspired countless poets and artists throughout the ages.

Nature has blessed humanity with the precious lotus, a flower that possesses its own distinct beauty, lifestyle, and an everlasting place in the hearts of the Vietnamese people.

"What flower is more beautiful than the lotus?

With green leaves and white petals, surrounded by yellow stamens,

Yellow stamens, white petals, green leaves,

It grows near the mud but does not stink of it."

(Folk Song)

Surely, when we hear these sweet and familiar lines, we immediately think of the lotus flower – a simple yet noble flower, the flower that "grows near the mud but does not stink of it".

The lotus is a flower that is familiar and beloved by all Vietnamese people, regardless of age. Originating as an aquatic plant from the Nymphaeaceae family, the lotus thrives in lakes and ponds, especially in Southeast Asia, and later spread to Vietnam. In our country, it flourishes in many places, especially in the southern provinces, with the Mekong Delta region being a prominent hub for lotus cultivation.

The lotus comes in various colors such as pink, white, purple, red, and blue, but the most common varieties are the pink and white lotus. Each lotus species has its own characteristics, but they all share common features. Firstly, the lotus grows to a height of about 1 to 1.5 meters. The lotus roots grow deep into the mud, often forming tubers to absorb nutrients from the soil, ensuring the plant’s growth. The stem is green, covered with small thorns, hollow inside, about the size of a thumb. Enhancing the beauty of the lotus are its leaves, which are dark green, large, and round, often floating on the water or rising above it.

The most striking feature of the lotus is, of course, its flower. The lotus has many petals that stack in layers around the calyx, with soft, delicate petals. The color of the lotus varies depending on the species, and it typically blooms in the summer under the golden sunlight. Another beautiful feature is the yellow stamen, which sits in the center of the flower. The lotus also has a green calyx, shaped like an inverted funnel, which holds the lotus seeds. All these parts of the lotus come together to create a unique and exquisite beauty that no other flower can match.

Beyond its visual appeal, the lotus plays an important role in the everyday life of the Vietnamese people. Every part of the lotus is useful and can be used for medicinal purposes. The lotus tuber and stems are often used in cooking, such as in soups or salads, offering a refreshing and cooling effect, especially in the heat of summer. The lotus leaves are used to wrap tea, creating a refined and elegant drink – a tradition in Hanoi’s culture. Additionally, the lotus leaves are used to wrap sticky rice, especially when making traditional Vietnamese cakes, as the writer Thạch Lam once said: “The sky created the sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves, and the sky created the lotus leaves to wrap it.” The lotus flower is not just a beautiful bloom; it is also a source of nutritious food. The lotus seeds can be made into various dishes such as lotus seed porridge, soups, or simply boiled. Lotus seed jam is a popular dish during the Lunar New Year and other festive occasions.

The lotus is more than just a flower; it is a symbol of beauty, purity, and grace. It represents the beauty of Vietnamese culture, embodying the purity and brightness of the nation. The lotus also carries a profound meaning – it grows in the muddy water yet still rises and exudes a fragrant aroma, "growing near the mud but not stinking of it." For this reason, the lotus is considered a symbol of Buddhism and is the national flower of Vietnam. It is also an inspiration for poetry, music, and art, with its image frequently used in the designs of Ao Dai (Vietnamese traditional dress) and in architectural works. The lotus may be simple and humble, but its significance in Vietnamese life is immense.

In conclusion, the lotus is a noble, graceful, and elegant flower, with invaluable qualities that no other flower can replace, as expressed in this poem:

"A beautiful pink lotus blossom,

Grows near the mud but is not stained by the worldly dirt and desires,

Its fragrance follows each step,

Its body pure, its mind kind, untouched by sorrow."

"Thap Muoi is the most beautiful with the lotus blossom. Vietnam is the most beautiful with the name of President Ho."

The lotus flower has long been deeply ingrained in the Vietnamese people's consciousness, symbolizing purity, elegance, and a deep cultural connection. It is a flower that represents the soul of the Vietnamese nation. The origin of the lotus is unclear, but it is widely believed to have originated in Asia and holds significant historical importance. In Vietnam, the lotus can be found in many regions, growing in wetlands, ponds, and lakes.

The lotus flourishes in environments rich in mud and water, yet despite these conditions, it maintains its graceful and untainted beauty. This is why the lotus is often used as a symbol of purity, representing virtue and the untainted nature of the human spirit, free from desires and vices.

The lotus plant is made up of several distinct parts. The lotus root, for instance, is a series of oval-shaped segments connected together, with a creamy white color. The lotus stalks resemble long sticks and are typically around 30 to 50 cm in length. The stem is hollow, greenish with brownish hues, and covered with tiny protective thorns. The lotus leaves are round, with deep central veins that support the plant. A unique feature of the lotus leaf is its water-repellent nature; no matter how much water is poured onto it, the droplets simply slide off without leaving any trace of moisture. The lotus bud is greenish, oval in shape, and when the flower blooms, it displays a beautiful pink hue on the petals, which may also be white in some varieties. The petals are arranged in layers, with the center containing a seed pod. Once the petals fall, the lotus seed pod, shaped like a funnel, remains, with small holes where lotus seeds are stored.

In Vietnam, the lotus is part of the four noble plants (Tứ Quý) that include the orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum. It is also associated with the four gentlemen (Tùng, Cúc, Trúc, Mai), symbolizing virtues in Vietnamese culture. The lotus thrives in tropical climates, which is why it is so abundant in Vietnam, flourishing in every region, from the north to the south. While the lotus blooms only in summer in the north, in the south, it is present year-round.

The lotus brings many benefits to daily life, with its various parts used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Lotus tea, lotus porridge, and other dishes like boiled beef with lotus root, or pork and lotus stem salad, are cherished for their health benefits. Additionally, dried lotus stems are used in herbal medicine to treat ailments like rhinitis, and lotus seeds are effective in combating insomnia.

Not only does the lotus enrich our lives physically, but it also holds deep spiritual significance. In Buddhism, the lotus is revered as a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and moral virtue, embodying the principle of “remaining unsullied by the world.” The lotus is also a key motif in Buddhist architecture and art, representing the path to spiritual awakening. An iconic example is the One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi, built during the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tông, which features a lotus symbolizing liberation and enlightenment.

In modern times, the lotus continues to represent Vietnam’s identity, appearing on the national airline's logo and symbolizing the nation’s cultural heritage, pride, and unity. The lotus is more than just a flower; it is a symbol of the Vietnamese people’s resilience, dignity, and deep connection to their roots.

The land of Vietnam, shaped like an 'S', is blessed with countless miracles by nature. One of the most exceptional gifts that nature has bestowed upon our people is the lotus flower—an unassuming yet sacred bloom that has been deeply intertwined with Vietnamese culture for centuries, becoming a powerful symbol of our nation.

The lotus is native to Asia, particularly India. Its exact origins are unknown, but it is considered one of the oldest flowers in Eastern traditions, holding a significant position in various cultures, especially in Buddhism. In ancient times, the lotus was common along the banks of the Nile River in Egypt, where it was known as the sacred blue lotus. In Vietnam, it has long been a symbol of beauty and reverence.

The lotus is a well-known flower in Vietnam. Its beauty is simple, yet extraordinary. The petals are long and slender, typically in shades of white or pale pink, smooth to the touch. The color of the petals deepens gradually from the center to the outer edges. When the lotus bud is closed, it appears shy and reserved, like a young woman at the peak of her youth. Once in full bloom, the petals spread wide and shine brightly. The petals and stamen form the delicate, elegant shape of the flower. The lotus is supported by a long stem that allows it to rise above the water. As the lotus ages, the seeds within the seed pod grow larger, easily visible. The lotus stem has a unique structure—if split in half, it reveals long fibers connecting the two parts, which inspired the poet Nguyễn Du to write: "Even when the stem parts, the threads of affection remain." This feature symbolizes loyalty and devotion. The lotus leaves are large, round, and dark green, with a velvety surface that sparkles in the sunlight.

There are several types of lotus, including the pink, red, blue, and white varieties. Each type carries its own symbolic meaning. The pink lotus is regarded as the highest form, the true lotus of Buddha. The red lotus symbolizes the heart, primal love, and compassion. The white lotus conveys purity, simplicity, and quiet dignity. Its white color is a symbol of purity and nobility. While the white lotus represents the purity and clarity of the soul, the blue lotus signifies strength, resilience, and unyielding faith. It also symbolizes freedom, equality, and charity.

The lotus is not only a symbol of beauty, but also a precious gift from nature with many practical uses. First and foremost, it is a decorative flower, often placed in vases as a beautiful centerpiece. Beyond its aesthetic value, many parts of the lotus are used in cooking and medicine. The small, white lotus seeds can be eaten as a snack and are also used to treat insomnia and nervous exhaustion. The green lotus heart, found in the center of the seed, is often used to flavor tea, imparting a unique taste. The lotus stem, which can be eaten, is also beneficial for liver health. During festivals, lotus jam and lotus tea are common treats offered to guests. The lotus leaves are used to wrap sticky rice, a favorite dish of many. Beyond these everyday uses, the lotus holds a significant cultural and spiritual role in Vietnam. It is part of the "Four Noble Plants" (Tứ Quý) alongside orchids, chrysanthemums, and plums, and is honored as a symbol of virtue. The lotus remains a proud emblem of the Vietnamese nation.

Thus, the lotus is both simple and elegant, pure yet noble. I believe that no matter how the world changes, the lotus will continue to retain its pure beauty and spread its fragrance through life.

The lotus has long been recognized as the national flower of Vietnam, symbolizing grace, beauty, and purity. It is both majestic and humble, representing the essence of Vietnamese womanhood and the spirit of the nation as a whole.

Originating in Asia, the lotus has been an integral part of Vietnamese culture for centuries, flourishing in many provinces across the country. Our ancestors once said, "What flower is more beautiful than the lotus/ With green leaves, white petals, and golden stamens," a reminder that the lotus is an aquatic plant, thriving in ponds, lakes, and wetlands. According to studies, the lotus belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family, one of the oldest plant families on Earth. The lotus has distinct features. Its stem is long, round, green, hollow inside, and covered in small thorns. The root of the lotus lies deep in the mud, consisting of tuber-like segments connected together, with a smooth, white color. The lotus stalk is slender, about 30 to 50 cm in length. The lotus leaf is large and round, with veins that form a slight depression in the center. The leaf, much like a taro leaf, is water-resistant—no matter how much water is poured on it, the drops simply slide off without leaving a trace, thanks to a fine, velvety coating on the surface. Before blooming, the lotus bud is oval-shaped, with petals tightly wrapped around the stamen. Once it opens, it reveals a stunning flower. The petals are large and boat-shaped, a rich pink at the edges, fading to a lighter pink at the center. Alongside the pink lotus, there is also the white lotus, which is pure and serene. When the petals fall, a funnel-shaped calyx remains, filled with small holes, each containing a lotus seed. The seeds begin as small, hollow structures, eventually growing larger, with a tough exterior. While the green seeds are yellow-green, as they mature, they turn a dark brown, with a pale yellow interior. In northern Vietnam, the lotus blooms only in summer. After the season ends, the flower submerges under the water and reappears in the spring. In southern Vietnam, however, the lotus blooms longer, and in some areas, it can be found year-round.

The lotus is a revered symbol among the Vietnamese people, a flower of grace and purity, "close to the mud, yet never tainted by it." The beauty and innocence of the lotus reflect the virtuous character of the Vietnamese people—simple yet noble. The lotus also has numerous uses. It is commonly placed in homes and during ceremonial events. The lotus root can be prepared into delicious, nutritious dishes, while the seeds are often used to make a fragrant, creamy dessert. The lotus heart is used in tea, a natural remedy for insomnia. In addition to its practical uses, the lotus holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. The Buddhist tradition greatly honors the lotus as a symbol of moral integrity and virtuous values. Many architectural landmarks, such as the One-Pillar Pagoda and various temple symbols, feature the lotus. There are many different types of lotus, classified by the color of their blooms. The pink lotus is a symbol of dignity and honor, while the blue lotus represents wisdom, the red lotus symbolizes pure love, and the white lotus conveys simplicity and gentleness.

The lotus, with its gentle beauty, has been closely associated with the Vietnamese people for generations. Wherever the lotus blooms, it adds an elegant and lofty charm to its surroundings. The village where our beloved national leader was born is also named Lotus Village. Throughout history, the lotus has preserved its timeless beauty and significance:

"The Thap Muoi is the most beautiful with its lotus bloom, Vietnam is the most beautiful with the name of Uncle Ho."