“Being rich in farinaceous matter {{w|Nelumbo}}s are cultivated in the Orient for food. The seeds—known as {{w|Lotus seed|Lotus nut}}s—can be eaten raw or can be used in soups and various Japanese and Chinese dishes. ...In the Orient the plant is held sacred to Buddha who is thought to have been born in the heart of a Lotus blossom. The {{w|order of the Star of India}} comprises a Lotus flower, the {{w|Tudor rose|Rose of England}} and two crossed Palm branches. Incidentally Hindus compare their country to the Lotus, the petals suggesting Central India and the leaves the surrounding provinces.”