Talk:Lotus/@comment-74.197.190.32-20140716222932/@comment-24.107.7.208-20140722095912

More likely, it's a reference to the "sacred lotus," nelumbo nucifera of the nelumbo genus and not the lotus genus which would've been featured in Greek myths. The former genus is aquatic while the latter is terrestial. The aquatic lotus has cultural significance in Hinduism and Eastern mysticism in general. And would've been as widely known as popular as roses would've been in Europe.

Keep in mind the Tenno are very Japanese flavored, from their seiza posture while sitting, the nikana, dojo gardens and their "ninja" training. So aquatic lotuses would fit them better.