Bowl lotus is a term given to the smallest growing lotus. The bowl lotus produce small leaves, small flowers and rhizomes. The leaves may grow 6 inches (15 cm) to 10 inches (25.5 cm) high. Today’s cultivars the flowers will rise above leaves and may be as large as 5 inches (12.7 cm) in diameter! Bowl lotus are frequently grown in small containers: 7 inches (18 cm) to 11 inches (28 cm) in diameter and a depth of only 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm). Bowl lotus are commonly grown in China but are also found in Japan, Thailand and throughout East Asia. They are perfect to grow as an accent plant on a stand, ledge or even a table top.
Additional information published in 2016 may be found here
Bowl lotus are a bit delicate to grow. They require warmth, at least 6 hours of sunlight and water. They can not tolerate more than a few days inside a house otherwise their buds, flowers and leaves will wilt. It is important to have good air movement to discourage an infestation of aphids. Aphids are a sucking insect which can cause damage to young leaves and flower buds. Be sure to remove duckweed (Lemna minor) and algae from the container as they will compete for nutrients, reduce water temperature and affect the growth of the lotus overall. It is important to fertilize every two weeks with a smaller or 1/2 tab of fertilizer. If the leaves start to yellow, more fertilizer should be added. Remove old, decaying leaves but make sure the cuts are above the water line or water will run into the stem and potentially cause the plant to rot. Pruning old leaves and flowers will stimulate more production of leaves and may extend the blooming season. A bowl lotus needs a cool place for dormancy but avoid any chance of freezing. Keep the container wet and its best to remove and replant the rhizome next spring.