Rare Lotus Blooms Amid Scorching Heat Wave in South Korea

GANGNEUNG, Aug. 7 (Korea Bizwire) – As South Korea grapples with an unbearable heat wave and tropical nights, a rare flower is defying expectations by bursting into full bloom just as the sweltering weather intensifies. 

At the Gyeongpo Euryale Ferox Wetlands in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, the Euryale ferox, also known as the prickly water lily, is putting on a spectacular display, captivating visitors with its delicate beauty.

This aquatic plant, classified as an endangered species level II in South Korea, is thriving despite the oppressive temperatures. 

The Gyeongpo wetlands, a prime habitat for the Euryale ferox in South Korea, are showcasing the plant’s resilience. Small purple flowers, approximately 4 centimeters in diameter, are embracing their yellow stamens, exuding charm even as temperatures soar. 

The presence of the Euryale ferox in Gyeongpo is a conservation success story. In 2007, a restoration project was initiated to reclaim the lagoon that had been converted to farmland.

After nearly 50 years, the prickly water lily has been successfully reestablished, making this area a nationally recognized natural habitat. 

The blooming season began in mid-July with just a few individual plants flowering. However, as the heat wave persisted, the number of blooming plants has surged to around 100, dotting the wetlands with their vibrant purple hues. 

The Euryale ferox has a unique flowering pattern. Its long, thorny stems produce single purple blossoms that open during the day and close at night. To witness the flowers in full bloom, visitors must brave the scorching midday sun when temperatures are at their peak.

This elusive nature of the blooming process has given rise to a local superstition that merely seeing the open flower brings good fortune. The flower’s name in the language of flowers translates to “Good luck to you.” 

To accommodate visitors during the extreme heat, the Wonju Regional Environmental Office and the city of Gangneung have prepared 100 parasols for public use.

This thoughtful gesture has been well-received by tourists seeking to observe the rare blooms while sheltering from the intense sunlight. 

One visitor, identified only as Jung, 28, shared their experience: “I came to Gyeongpo with a friend and stumbled upon these prickly water lilies. I was drawn to the small purple flowers surrounded by sharp thorns. Despite the intense heat, this has become a precious memory.”

Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com