Request for assistance in determining distribution of new invasive plant found in Lake Vermilion

Nelumbo nucifera (sacred or Indian lotus) has been found covering a substantial portion of Lake Vermilion in Danville, IL (just east of Champaign).  The recently discovered population is most likely an aquatic garden escapee.  Illinois Department of Natural Resources is trying to determine if this is an isolated population or if other populations of this species exist in the state.

Some identifying features of the plant- native lotus have yellow petals and nearly round seeds, while the exotic lotus has pink or white petals with seeds that are oblong.

If you know of a population please contact Cathy MCglynn (cathy.mcglynn@niipp.net), Northeast Illinois Invasive Plant Partnership