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Description
Lotus Berthelotii, also known as Parrot’s Beak, is a small shrub with silver-green leaves and red-orange flowers. It is native to the Canary Islands and prefers warm temperatures and dry conditions. The plant is popular among gardeners for its stunning blooms and unique foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lotus |
Appearance
The Lotus Berthelotii plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has a spreading habit. Its leaves are silver-green, hairy, and small, measuring only about 1 cm in length. The flowers are bright red or orange, and are shaped like a parrot’s beak, hence the name Parrot’s Beak. They bloom all year round, but are most abundant in spring and summer.
Care Guide
Water: Lotus Berthelotii prefers dry conditions and should be watered sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: Lotus Berthelotii requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lotus Berthelotii is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. To prevent pest infestations, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Lotus Berthelotii is native to the Canary Islands, where it grows in rocky areas and on cliffs. It prefers warm temperatures and dry conditions, and can tolerate salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best soil for Lotus Berthelotii?
A: The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: How often should I water my Lotus Berthelotii?
A: The plant prefers dry conditions and should be watered sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What pests are common on Lotus Berthelotii?
A: The plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lotus Berthelotii?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Lotus corniculatus
- Lotus tenuis
- Lotus uliginosus
- Lotus scoparius
References
- “Lotus berthelotii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277319&isprofile=0&gen=lotus.
- “Lotus berthelotii – Plant Finder.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/61841/.
- “Lotus berthelotii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19017/Lotus-berthelotii/Details.
