Is it a plant or a parrot? 

Parrot's Beak (Clianthus puniceus) puts on a spectacular show of exotic blooms that resemble tropical bird bills!  Parrot's Beak is an easy-to-grow bush that grows 4 to 8 feet tall and wide.  From about February through July it becomes loaded with big, 3" bright-pink blooms that dangle like earrings from gorgeous, fern-like foliage.  The plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds - as well as children, who like to feel the thick, waxy blooms that resemble pink flamingos!  This is an endangered species that is close to extinction in its homeland of New Zealand.

Parrot's Beak is an evergreen, perennial species with arching, wooden branches.  It does best with temperatures above freezing, although it reportedly can take brief dips down to 22 degrees (-5°C).  If you are not in Zones 8b through 11, you may grow it in a pot and move it indoors for the winter.  It prefers mostly sunny conditions, although some afternoon shade may be needed in warmer areas.  The plant is happiest below 85 degrees (29°C) and might lag in consistently hot summers.

Parrot's Beak was first discovered by Captain Cook in his famous journey to the South Seas.  Now there are almost no plants left in the wild.  There is a redder form of this species in cultivation, but the bright pink form seen here is hard to find.  You're going to love this one-of-a-kind beauty that's sure to get "oohs" and "ahhs" in your garden!

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Growing tips for this plant