Etymology: Lotus: from Greek and originally applied to a fruit which was said to make those who tasted it forget their homes
Plants: erect to drooping, perennial, 6"-24" tall, mostly smooth forb; taprooted
Leaves: mostly stalkless, 5-parted with the lower 2 leaflets separated from the other 3 crowded leaflets
Flowers: yellow turning orange with brick-red marks, 5-parted, 1/3"-1/2" long; inflorescence a long-stalked, rounded, head-like cluster (umbel) of 4 to 8 stalked flowers from the upper leaf axils; blooms June-Aug.
Habitat: disturbed sites
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Invasiveness: Invasive - Eradicate!
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized; ecologically invasive

Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = FAC- WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key