This is Nelumbo nucifera, also known as Indian lotus, sacred lotus, and bean of India. This breath taking aquatic perennial is the national flower of India and Vietnam. It is a sacred plant for both Hindus and Buddhists. One of these seeds was recovered from a dry lake bed in China and carbon testing dated the seed as being at least 1000 years old; This seed germinated. This plant can regulate the temperature of its flowers, just like humans and other warm blooded animals can. The flower may do this to attract cold blooded insects that pollinate this plant. The young leaves, seeds, flowers, and roots are all edible. The stamens can be dried out and used to make a delicious tea. The fiber from this amazing plant can be used to make a type of fabric.As long as the roots do not freeze, this plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 10