Lotus Pod
The lotus pod is the woody seed head of the sacred lotus, a sculptural, honeycombed disc that brings bold, architectural texture to modern and dried design. Fresh pods read cool green and gradually cure to a rich woody brown that lasts indefinitely once dried. Florists use them as arresting focal accents in installations, autumn arrangements and editorial work, where their graphic form contrasts beautifully with softer blooms. Long-lasting and endlessly reusable, they are a staple of the dried and textural palette.
| Family | Nelumbonaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Asia (widely cultivated) |
| Peak season | August, September, October |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 30–90 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | green, brown |
| Price tier | mid |
Fresh green pods should be recut and conditioned in cool, clean water, where they hold a week or more as a sculptural focal element. To dry, simply leave the pods in a warm, airy place until they turn woody brown; they need no water and last indefinitely. Dried pods can be wired or mounted on stronger stems for large installations. Keep dried pods out of damp to prevent mould on the spongy seed head.
- •Recut fresh pods and use cool water
- •Air-dry to a woody brown finish
- •Wire dried pods for extra support
- •Keep dried pods away from damp
- •Combine with textural, tropical material
