How to Grow Mrs. Perry D. Slocum
Mrs. Perry D. Slocum
Nelumbo nucifera 'Mrs. Perry D. Slocum'
flowerMrs. Perry D. Slocum is a cultivar of the sacred lotus, a aquatic flowering plant prized for its large, fragrant double flowers that change color as they mature. The blossoms open coral-pink and gradually fade to pale yellow or cream over several days, creating a stunning multi-colored display in water gardens. This tropical water lily relative produces edible seeds and ornamental seed pods that are highly valued in floral arrangements.
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Example Mrs. Perry D. Slocum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Mrs. Perry D. Slocum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Mrs. Perry D. Slocum blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-11, prefers warmer climates (zones 7-10 for best performance)
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Get my Mrs. Perry D. Slocum timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy & Sprouting
4-6 weeksTubers lie dormant over winter; new growth emerges in spring as water warms to 60-65°F
Plant tubers after last frost when water temperature reaches 60°F. Keep in cool conditions if storing tubers. Ensure proper water depth from the start.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksLeaves emerge on long petioles, floating initially then rising above water; foliage is blue-green and lotus-shaped
Allow rhizomes to establish. Apply aquatic fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Monitor for pests and disease. Remove any decaying foliage. Water should be kept at consistent depth.
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksFlower buds appear on tall, sturdy stems rising above the foliage; buds are wrapped in green sepals
Ensure adequate sunlight and nutrients; buds require 6+ hours of direct sun daily. Continue fertilizing. Maintain stable water temperature (70-85°F ideal). Remove any competing weeds or algae.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (summer months)Large, double flowers (4-6 inches across) open coral-pink in morning, fade to pale yellow/cream by day 3, then petals drop revealing ornamental seed pod
Flowers bloom in morning and close by afternoon. Each flower lasts 2-3 days. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Maintain consistent water temperature and depth. Peak blooming occurs in mid to late summer.
Seed Pod Development & Dormancy
8-12 weeks (fall transition)Ornamental flat-topped seed pods develop after petals drop; foliage yellows and dies back as temperatures cool in fall
Allow seed pods to mature on plant for ornamental interest; harvest for dried arrangements if desired. Reduce watering as plant enters dormancy. Stop fertilizing in late summer. Tubers will overwinter in pond mud if water doesn't freeze; in colder zones, lift tubers and store in cool, moist conditions.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap safe for aquatic plants; introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Remove affected leaves; hand-pick beetles; use neem oil (aquatic-safe formulations only)
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with water; use sulfur-based fungicides in early stages
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Hand-remove snails; introduce snail-eating fish if appropriate for ecosystem; reduce plant debris
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Remove affected leaves; improve water circulation; ensure adequate sunlight; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Edible Seeds & Tubers
CulinaryLotus seeds are edible and nutritious when mature; tubers are consumed cooked as a vegetable in Asian cuisines. The entire plant is edible, with seeds having a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and tubers being starchy. [source]
Ornamental Arrangements
HouseholdSeed pods and flowers are prized in dried flower arrangements and floral design. The distinctive flat-topped seed pods are particularly valuable for their architectural interest and long-lasting dried form. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalLotus has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda for centuries; seeds and rhizomes are attributed with calming properties and digestive benefits. The plant contains alkaloids and flavonoids with potential health applications. [source]
Aquatic Habitat
WildlifeProvides habitat and food sources for aquatic insects, birds, and fish. The large leaves offer shelter for wildlife, and seeds are consumed by waterfowl. [source]
Botanical Preservation
CraftSeed pods and dried flowers are used in pressed flower crafts, scrapbooking, and botanical art projects. The unique structure of seed pods makes them excellent specimens for preservation. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest seed pods after flowers drop and pods turn brown (late summer/early fall); cut with pruning shears and dry for 1-2 weeks before using in arrangements. Seeds can be harvested from mature pods for propagation. Tubers are harvested in fall after foliage dies back; carefully lift from soil/mud, clean gently, and store in cool, moist conditions for winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The color-changing flowers of Mrs. Perry D. Slocum create a natural chromatic display: opening coral-pink on the first day, shifting to pale yellow on the second, and cream-white by the third day before petals drop.
- 🌱 Lotus seeds have remarkable longevity and can remain viable for thousands of years; ancient seeds have been successfully germinated after being dormant for over 1,000 years in dried peat.
- 🌱 The lotus is considered sacred in Buddhism and Hinduism, symbolizing spiritual awakening and enlightenment; the plant's ability to emerge pristine from muddy water mirrors the spiritual journey.
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