ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the origin and distribution, nutritional composition, medicinal values, climatic requirement, soil requirement, cultivated varieties and post-harvest management of lotus root. The lotus grows in Asia, Oceania, North and South America and Australia. Lotus is found growing at an altitude as high as 2000 m above sea level. The lotus roots can be processed into flour and used in cooking, making bread or for the thickening of soups. The starchy lotus roots are very nutritious, as they provide a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, calcium, potassium and phosphorous. The water requirement of lotus varies with different stages of growth and purpose of growing. The lotus roots after harvesting should be washed properly but the presence of mud is not harmful. The leaf roller is a destructive pest of lotus. The pest causes severe damage to the lotus plant by cutting leaf edges and rolling them inside.
