Clianthus puniceus

Clianthus puniceus

Kaka beak

★

Taxonomy

Common Names

Kaka beakParrot's bill

Context

nativeRegion

New Zealand.

usdaZones

9–11.

companionPlants

Coprosma, Phormium, Leptospermum

culturalUses

Valued as an ornamental for its striking flowers; symbolically significant in Māori culture.

Care

LightFull sun to partial shade; prefers bright, direct light for best flowering.

WateringModerate; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.

SoilWell-draining, fertile soils. Sandy or loamy mixtures preferred. Neutral to slightly acidic pH.

FertilizerLight feed with balanced fertilizer during growing season; avoid high nitrogen.

HumidityModerate humidity is ideal, but it is tolerant of drier conditions.

TemperaturePrefers mild climates; protect from frost and temperatures below -2°C (28°F).

HabitEvergreen or semi-evergreen shrub with arching branches and striking hanging flowers.

Mature Size1.5–3 meters (5–10 feet) tall and wide.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingSpring to early summer; produces large, bright scarlet-red clustered flowers.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth may slow in cooler months.

MethodsSeed, Semi-hardwood cuttings

DifficultyModerate; seeds need scarification, and cuttings may root slowly.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in spring.

PruningLight prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

RepottingOnly when root-bound; young plants benefit from annual pot upgrades.

Pests & DiseasesCan be affected by aphids, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNot known to be toxic to humans or pets.

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