Bach Diep lotus brings sweet summer scent to Hanoi’s West Lake

When it comes to the quintessential summer flower, lotus cannot be overlooked. In the minds of many, the beauty and fragrance of Hanoi's lotus are epitomized by the elegant West Lake lotus, also known as Bach Diep lotus.

Bach Diep lotus gets its name from the hundreds of petals (Bach Diep) of all sizes that hug the yellow pistil so that it always retains its fragrance. (Photo: VNA)

For a long time, the image of the lotus flower has been familiar to the people of Vietnam and many East Asian countries. The flower symbolizes radiant beauty, elegance, and purity. (Photo: VNA)

Bach Diep lotuses used specifically for tea infusion must be handpicked at 4 – 5 AM when the sun has not yet risen, the flowers still hold morning dew and not in full bloom. (Photo: VNA)

The pure and unique beauty of the West Lake lotus (Photo: VNA)

The Bach Diep lotus must be used to scent West Lake lotus tea with its distinctive fragrance. (Photo: VNA)

A child in Quang An ward with freshly harvested Bach Diep lotuses, ready to be used for tea scenting. (Photo: VNA)