Parrot's Beak (Lotus berthelotii)

Parrot's Beak

Lotus berthelotii

Its parrot-beak blooms glow like tiny tropical embers. Trailing evergreen perennial; common name: Parrot's Beak.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to support consistent blooming
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Watering Allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22°C; protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Silvery-gray, needle-like, densely packed along trailing stems
  • Flower: Bright orange-red, curved parrot-beak shaped blooms
  • Stem: Slender, wiry trailing stems that spread horizontally
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during prolonged hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize bloom production over foliage growth

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute the tea 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage bushier, more compact growth
  • Deadhead spent blooms promptly to extend the flowering period
  • Remove any yellow or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and improve air circulation
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental trailing plant for hanging baskets, rock gardens, and container displays