While I was working on the Madurai temple idealisation, I came across the golden lotus plant. It is similar to our banana plant, but shorter. Its botanical name is Musella lasiocarpa. It is native to China and grows there in the mountainous regions. But it can be grown in the tropics also. Its cost in the US can run in to several hundred dollars! It has religious significance in Buddhism. Here is a pattern I made out of the golden lotus, one of the most beautiful flowers in the world. Enjoy!
Regards! - mOhana