The 26th National Lotus Show opened in Shanghai on July 6 as lotuses and water lilies blossomed in Chenshan Botanical Garden.

Over 100 different kinds of water lilies are on display, such as the Wanvisa, Moon Dance, Ultra Violet, Tanzanite, Foxfire, and Egyptian White Water-lily which blooms only at night. There are more than 600 species of lotuses exhibiting at the show, including Chinese ancient Thousand Petals, dubbed as the "flower of all flowers", and some newly imported Large Versicolor, American Lotus, and Thai Lotus. The working staff in Chenshan Botanical Garden have decorated the No 1 Gate with many potted lotuses to make the Garden more beautiful and celebrate the opening of National Lotus Show. What's more, they have spent several months nursing over 100 Victoria Amazonica which have been placed in the Victoria Amazonica's spot. The lotuses and water lilies will add more color to the garden.

Last year was the first time that the "National Lotuses Show" was held in Chenshan Botanical Garden. Numerous world-renowned lotuses and water lilies were introduced to the garden and offered visitors a visual feast with full blossom.

The blossom hour of lotuses and water lilies differs due to distinct geographical locations, climates, and the species. Most lotuses and water lilies bloom in the early morning and close up at midday. However, very few only open at night, for example, the Egyptian White Water-lily.

Visitors are recommended to arrive early with their cameras. The best time to appreciate the lotuses and water lilies in Shanghai is between 6 am and 9 am. Visitors who come across a cloudy or drizzling day will be able to avoid the heat and enjoy water drops dancing on lotus leaves.

By Li Xiaonan

Edited by Fu Bo and Emily Cheng