Parrots Beak (Lotus berthelotii) is a trailing evergreen perennial that is native to the Canary Islands. The trailing silver needle-like leaves hang, holding onto bright crimson flowers. The blooms are shaped like parrot beaks, hence the common name, and are an exotic addition to containers and hanging baskets. It flowers in the colder weather of spring and dislikes hot temperatures. The genus name Lotus derives from the Greek “lotun” meaning “sorrows” while the species name berthelotii is given in honour of Spanish botanist Augustin-Pyrame Berthelot.
How to Plant and Grow
Given the right growing conditions, Parrots Beak can be quite a low-maintenance plant. It needs to be grown in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded spot. It should be planted with plenty of room between the different plants so that they don’t overcrowd each other creating humidity and an optimal environment for blight. For best results, Parrots Beak should be watered frequently and kept in a temperature of around 10 – 25 centigrade. In hotter climates it can only tolerate short periods of heat and requires some protection from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. When watering, soil should be kept moist but not overly so and Parrots Beak must not be allowed to completely dry out. Supplementing your plants with a good fertilizer once a month will help keep it growing healthy and looking its best.
Meaning and Symbolism
Parrots Beak has significant symbolism attached to it. In China, the flower is a symbol of everlasting beauty and longevity, while in Africa it is used to symbolize fertility, reinforcing its meaning as a life-bearing species. The flower has no particular religious significance or representation, though it has been said to represent individuality and freedom. The exotic beauty of Parrots Beak can represent the desire to break free and captivate the imagination.
History, Mythology and Religious Significance
Parrots Beak has a long and fascinating history; in ancient Egypt, it was believed that Pharaohs used the plant as protection against snakes. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to be a potent antidote to the Plague and hence was used in medicinal remedies. In Chinese mythology, the flower is seen as a symbol of beauty and is often used in wedding vessels due to this; this is as a result of Parrot Beak’s vibrant colours and its ability to create beauty in chaotic environments. Parrots Beak is symbolic of surpassing adversity and standing out from the competition. While the flower does not have any religious significance, it has been suggested that its symbolic meaning has profound religious relevance.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
Parrots Beak, often simply termed ‘Berthelotii’, is a variety of the Lotus plant that is native to the Canary Islands. It is often referred to as a perennial, although technically it is a biennial. It is characterized by silver needle-like foliage which is laden with delicate white, crimson and red flowers which take on a parrot-like shape, hence its name. Parrots Beak is a popular choice among those preferring drought-tolerant plants and flowers, as the water needs of this particular species are minimal.
How to Pot and Repot
When it comes to potting and repotting, Parrots Beak needs to be done with care. For potting, use a standard potting mix suited for all-purpose plants, such as one containing perlite, bark and peat. When transferring to a larger container, use a light potting mix, such as one that contains equal parts loam and leaf mold, ensuring that the soil is not too dry. The container should have adequate drainage and be slightly larger than the existing pot, with at least two inches of space on all sides. When repotting, make sure to carefully untangle and remove any dead foliage, and prune the roots and stems if they are overgrown.
How to Prune
Pruning of Parrots Beak is important for long-term plant health and also to encourage new growth. Prune the plant using snips or hedge shears to remove any dead, wilted or unhealthy growth, trimming back to just above the first healthy leaf or stem. Clear away finger-like flower clusters with the pruning shears, in order to promote growth of larger blooms. Prune the tall stalks and trim back the side shoots too, in order to prevent the plant from becoming overgrown.
How to Propagate
Propagating Parrots Beak is a great way to enlarge your garden. If you’re looking to add more of this beautiful flower to your garden, you can choose to propagate it from seeds or from existing plants. Seed propagation of Parrots Beak requires patience and planning. First, you’ll need to collect seeds from mature plants in the late summer. Soak the seeds overnight, then sow in sterile seed-starting mix. Cover with a thin layer of potting mix and then keep the pots in a warm spot in direct sunlight, allowing them to dry out between waterings. Parrots Beak can also be propagated from existing plants easily by cutting off a healthy stem or root. Plant the stem into a pot of light potting soil and make sure it is upright. Water the soil regularly and place the cutting in a warm, brightly lit area until it has rooted and produced new leaves.
Common Pests and Diseases
Parrots Beak is relatively disease-resistant, however it may be prone to certain pests such as aphids and mealybugs. To prevent infestation, make sure to regularly check the foliage for signs of attack and quickly respond with a suitable pesticide. Often, removing the affected parts of the plant is enough to effectively control a pest outbreak. In terms of disease, Parrots Beak is most commonly affected by root rot due to excessive wetness and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure that your plant is always in a well-draining soil and never over-water it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Parrots Beak and Lotus Berthelotii?
Answer: Parrots Beak is a variety of the Lotus plant that is native to the Canary Islands. It is characterized by silver needle-like foliage which is laden with delicate white, crimson and red flowers which take on a parrot-like shape. Lotus Berthelotii, in contrast, is a biennial flowering plant from the Canary Islands with flowers in shades of red, pink, and orange.
2. How often should I water Parrots Beak?
Answer: Parrots Beak should be watered frequently, but not overly so. The soil should be moist but not wet. Supplementing your plants with a good fertilizer once a month will help keep it growing healthy and looking its best.
3. How long do Parrots Beak blooms usually last?
Answer: The flowers of Parrots Beak usually bloom for around three weeks, though this can be a little less depending on your climate.
Table Fact Sheet
| Plant | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Parrots Beak | Biennial |
| Lotus Berthelotii | Biennial |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Mature Size | 12-14 inches |
| Sun Exposure | Partial Shade |
| Soil Type | Moist, Well-Drained |
| Soil pH | 6.6 – 7.5 |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | Crimson, White, Red |
| Hardiness Zones | Zones 5 – 9 |
| Native Area | Canary Islands |
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