ngutukākā
foliage palette: mid-green
fruit & flower palette: red
Clianthus maximus | kākābeak, kōwhai ngutu-kākā, kākā beak
This hardy evergreen shrub produces spectacular clusters of large, bright red, beak-shaped flowers from winter through spring, attracting nectar-feeding birds. It grows well in full sun or light shade, adapts to most well-drained soils, and tolerates dry conditions once established. Striking in mixed plantings or mass displays, it also works beautifully in containers, as a feature plant, or to soften walls and outdoor spaces.