Parrot’s Beak Plant

Spain (Canary Islands)

Native Habitat: The Parrot’s Beak is indigenous to the Canary Islands, an archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa but politically part of Spain. Historically, it was common in its natural habitat, but due to various environmental changes, it became increasingly rare in the wild. Today, it’s considered critically endangered in its native region.

Conservation Efforts: There have been various conservation efforts to protect and reintroduce Lotus berthelotii in the Canary Islands, including seed collection and cultivation in botanical gardens.

United Kingdom

Introduction: The Parrot’s Beak was introduced to the UK primarily as an ornamental plant in the late 19th or early 20th century.

Horticultural Use: It has been widely used in the UK as a decorative plant, especially in hanging baskets and containers due to its trailing growth habit and striking flowers.

United States

Popularity: In the United States, the Parrot’s Beak gained popularity as a garden plant in the 20th century, particularly in regions with a Mediterranean climate such as California.

Cultivation: Gardeners in warmer regions of the US appreciate the plant for its drought tolerance and vibrant color. It’s often used in xeriscaping and container gardening.

Australia

Cultivation: Similar to the United States, the Parrot’s Beak is cultivated in Australia for ornamental purposes. It thrives in regions with mild winters and is appreciated for its unique appearance.

Environmental Concerns: In some areas, care is taken to prevent it from escaping cultivation and potentially becoming invasive, although it is generally not a significant concern.

New Zealand

Horticultural Interest: In New Zealand, Lotus berthelotii is grown as a garden ornamental. The country’s favorable climate supports its growth, and it is often seen in gardens and containers.

Challenges: Some gardeners face challenges in growing this plant due to its specific needs for well-drained soil and protection from frost.

South Africa

Ornamental Use: The Parrot’s Beak is cultivated in South Africa, particularly in regions with Mediterranean climates. It is used in landscaping for its drought resistance and striking floral display.

Cultivation Tips: In South Africa, gardeners often grow this plant in containers to protect it from the intense summer heat and to ensure proper drainage.

France

Mediterranean Regions: In southern France, particularly in Provence, the Parrot’s Beak is grown in gardens and containers. It’s favored for its ability to thrive in dry, sunny conditions.

Garden Design: It is often used in Mediterranean garden designs, which emphasize plants that can withstand hot, dry summers.

Japan

Introduction and Popularity: The Parrot’s Beak was introduced to Japan as an ornamental plant, where it is appreciated for its exotic appearance.

Cultivation: It is typically grown in containers or hanging baskets to adorn patios and balconies, and it requires careful maintenance to protect it from humidity and overwatering.

Germany

Horticultural Interest: In Germany, Lotus berthelotii is cultivated as an ornamental plant, especially in regions with milder climates.

Greenhouses: In colder regions, it is often grown in greenhouses or as a summer annual due to its sensitivity to frost.

Canada

Limited Cultivation: Due to Canada’s colder climate, the Parrot’s Beak is not as widely cultivated. However, it can be grown as an annual or in greenhouses.

Gardening Practices: Canadian gardeners who grow this plant often use it in hanging baskets and bring it indoors during the winter months.

Parrot’s Beak plant, scientifically known as *Lotus berthelotii*, is native to the Canary Islands.

The plant gets its name from the vibrant, beak-shaped flowers that resemble a parrot’s beak.

Parrot’s Beak is a trailing perennial, often used as a ground cover or in hanging baskets.

The flowers are typically bright red or orange, making them stand out in any garden.

The plant belongs to the Fabaceae family, the same family as peas and beans.

Parrot’s Beak thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and prefers full sun.

It is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.

The plant produces flowers in spring and summer, although it can bloom year-round in the right conditions.

Parrot’s Beak is sensitive to frost and should be protected in colder climates.

The foliage of the Parrot’s Beak plant is silvery-green, adding a soft texture to garden designs.

The flowers are rich in nectar and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

It is often grown as an annual in regions where it is not hardy.

Parrot’s Beak can be propagated easily from cuttings or seeds.

In its native habitat, Parrot’s Beak is considered endangered due to habitat loss.

The plant grows best in Mediterranean climates, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

It can reach a height of 6 to 12 inches and spread up to 3 feet.

Parrot’s Beak is also known as Coral Gem, a name that reflects its striking color.

The plant is often used in rock gardens, coastal gardens, and containers.

In addition to its ornamental value, Parrot’s Beak is also used in erosion control on slopes.

The flowers open only in sunny weather, closing up when it is cloudy or nighttime.

Parrot’s Beak is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal pruning.

It is salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal gardens.

The plant does not tolerate heavy, clayey soils and requires good drainage.

It can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.

Parrot’s Beak does well in pots, making it a popular choice for patios and balconies.

It can be grown indoors as a houseplant if provided with enough light.

The plant has a sprawling habit, often cascading over the edges of containers.

Parrot’s Beak is not typically invasive, making it easy to manage in gardens.

In cultivation, the plant may require regular feeding to encourage vigorous flowering.

The plant’s unique appearance and vibrant color make it a conversation starter in any garden.

To plant a Parrot’s Beak in your garden, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in, and fill it with soil. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.


Parrot’s Beak plants thrive in sandy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Mixing organic matter like compost into the soil can improve drainage and nutrient content, helping the plant grow healthily.


Water your Parrot’s Beak plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently, but reduce watering in winter when the plant’s growth slows down.


Parrot’s Beak plants require full sun to partial shade. They perform best with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch and keep the plant vibrant.


To encourage more blooms, provide your Parrot’s Beak with plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season, and deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.


Yes, Parrot’s Beak plants can be grown indoors if provided with bright, indirect light. Ensure the plant receives enough light by placing it near a south-facing window and maintain a consistent watering schedule to prevent the soil from drying out.


Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap. Diseases like root rot can occur if the soil is too wet, so ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering to keep your Parrot’s Beak healthy.


Prune your Parrot’s Beak plant by cutting back leggy stems and removing dead or damaged foliage. Pruning encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Trim the plant lightly in early spring before new growth starts, and deadhead spent blooms regularly.

Parrot’s Beak plants can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy plant in spring or early summer, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a pot with moist soil. Keep the cutting warm and humid until it roots.


In colder climates, bring your Parrot’s Beak plant indoors before the first frost. Place it in a sunny window and reduce watering. If grown in a container, ensure it’s in a frost-free area. Gradually reintroduce the plant to outdoor conditions in spring.

What is a Parrot’s Beak plant?

The Parrot’s Beak plant (Lotus berthelotii) is a trailing perennial known for its vibrant, beak-shaped flowers, resembling a parrot’s beak. Native to the Canary Islands, it’s popular in gardens for its unique appearance and colorful blooms.

Why is it called Parrot’s Beak plant?

The plant is named “Parrot’s Beak” because its flowers closely resemble the curved beak of a parrot, with bright colors like red, orange, or yellow, further enhancing the resemblance.

How do you care for a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Care for a Parrot’s Beak plant by providing it with well-draining soil, full sunlight, and moderate watering. It thrives in warm climates and should be protected from frost. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape.

What type of soil does the Parrot’s Beak plant need?

The Parrot’s Beak plant requires well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels and doesn’t tolerate waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.

Why do Parrot’s Beak plant flowers close?

Parrot’s Beak plant flowers may close due to environmental stress, such as excessive heat, drought, or insufficient sunlight. Ensuring optimal growing conditions helps keep the flowers open and vibrant.

How often should you water a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Water the Parrot’s Beak plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s important to avoid soggy soil, especially during cooler months.

What are the benefits of growing a Parrot’s Beak plant?

The Parrot’s Beak plant adds vibrant color and unique shape to gardens and containers. It attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, and its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets.

Why is my Parrot’s Beak plant not flowering?

A Parrot’s Beak plant may not flower due to insufficient sunlight, improper watering, or poor soil conditions. Ensuring it gets full sun, well-draining soil, and proper care should encourage blooming.

How do you propagate a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Propagate a Parrot’s Beak plant through stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or early summer, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the cuttings moist until roots develop.

What is the ideal temperature for a Parrot’s Beak plant?

The ideal temperature for a Parrot’s Beak plant is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It prefers warm climates and should be protected from frost, which can damage or kill the plant.

Why is my Parrot’s Beak plant wilting?

Wilting in a Parrot’s Beak plant may be due to underwatering, overwatering, or root rot. Ensure the plant receives adequate water without letting the soil become waterlogged, and check for root health.

How long do Parrot’s Beak flowers last?

Parrot’s Beak flowers typically last for several weeks during their blooming season, which usually occurs in late spring to early summer. Proper care can extend the flowering period.

What pests affect the Parrot’s Beak plant?

Common pests that affect the Parrot’s Beak plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage infestations.

How do you prune a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Prune a Parrot’s Beak plant by trimming back overgrown or leggy stems after the blooming period. This encourages bushier growth and more flowers in the next season.

Why is my Parrot’s Beak plant turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves on a Parrot’s Beak plant may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust watering habits, ensure well-draining soil, and consider fertilizing to correct the issue.

How do you fertilize a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Fertilize a Parrot’s Beak plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

What is the growth rate of a Parrot’s Beak plant?

The Parrot’s Beak plant has a moderate growth rate. Under optimal conditions, it can grow several feet in a single growing season, making it a fast-growing option for filling garden spaces.

Why are my Parrot’s Beak plant leaves curling?

Curling leaves on a Parrot’s Beak plant may be due to environmental stress, such as low humidity, excessive heat, or pest infestations. Improving growing conditions can help resolve this issue.

How do you revive a dying Parrot’s Beak plant?

To revive a dying Parrot’s Beak plant, assess its growing conditions, including light, water, and soil. Prune any dead or damaged parts, adjust watering practices, and provide balanced fertilization.

What companion plants work well with Parrot’s Beak?

Companion plants for Parrot’s Beak include other sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants like succulents, lavender, and creeping thyme. These plants share similar growing requirements and enhance garden aesthetics.

How long does it take for Parrot’s Beak seeds to germinate?

Parrot’s Beak seeds typically take 2-3 weeks to germinate under optimal conditions, which include warm temperatures and consistent moisture. Germination may be slower in cooler or drier environments.

What is the lifespan of a Parrot’s Beak plant?

The Parrot’s Beak plant is a short-lived perennial, typically lasting 2-3 years in ideal conditions. However, it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates or when conditions are less favorable.

Why is the Parrot’s Beak plant rare in the wild?

The Parrot’s Beak plant is rare in the wild due to habitat loss and changes in its natural environment in the Canary Islands. It’s now more commonly found in cultivation than in its native habitat.

How do you grow Parrot’s Beak in a container?

To grow Parrot’s Beak in a container, use well-draining potting mix, ensure the pot has drainage holes, and place it in full sun. Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

What makes the Parrot’s Beak plant unique?

The Parrot’s Beak plant is unique for its striking, beak-shaped flowers and silvery, fern-like foliage. Its trailing habit makes it an attractive choice for hanging baskets and garden borders.

How do you protect Parrot’s Beak plant from frost?

Protect the Parrot’s Beak plant from frost by bringing containers indoors, covering outdoor plants with frost cloth, or moving them to a sheltered location. Frost can cause significant damage to the plant.

Why is my Parrot’s Beak plant dropping leaves?

Leaf drop in a Parrot’s Beak plant can result from stress factors such as sudden temperature changes, overwatering, or insufficient light. Identifying and addressing the stressor can help prevent further leaf loss.

How do you encourage more blooms on a Parrot’s Beak plant?

Encourage more blooms on a Parrot’s Beak plant by providing full sunlight, regular pruning, and balanced fertilization. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers.

What is the best season to plant Parrot’s Beak?

The best season to plant Parrot’s Beak is in spring after the last frost. Planting during this time allows the plant to establish itself before the intense heat of summer.

How does the Parrot’s Beak plant attract pollinators?

The Parrot’s Beak plant attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds with its vibrant, tubular flowers. These pollinators are drawn to the bright colors and the nectar-rich blooms, aiding in the plant’s reproduction.

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