Kakabeak

Clianthus maximus

Not Threatened

Clianthus maximus, commonly known as kaka beak (or kwhai ngutu-kk in Mori) and sometimes Giant Parrot's Beak, is a woody legume shrub native to the North Island of New Zealand among our threatened species. It is a broadleaf evergreen perennial that typically grows to 1.5-6 meters high. Its striking dark scarlet (red) blooms, about 80mm long, that appear in clusters of 15-20 between August and December. These flowers are distinctive for their resemblance to the beak of the native kaka parrot or lobster claws. The plant has soft, easily broken woody stems, and its long, trailing stems can form new plants when they touch the soil. As a member of the pea family, it can perform nitrogen fixation. The species is critically endangered in the wild, with only 153 confirmed trees recorded in a 2005 survey.

Kakabeak (Clianthus maximus) showing its distinctive red claw-shaped flowers — Image credit: Kakabeak (*Clianthus maximus*) - Photo by Wikipedia contributors, via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Clianthus maximus, commonly known as Kakabeak or Giant Parrot's Beak (kwhai ngutu-kk in Mori), is a woody legume shrub native to New Zealand's North Island. It is a broadleaf evergreen perennial with glossy dark green, fern-like leaves, typically 15-25 cm long, with 15-30 pairs of leaflets. This striking plant is renowned for its large, dark scarlet flowers, about 80 mm long, which appear in clusters of 15-30 blooms between August and December. These flowers resemble a parrot's beak or lobster claws and are a significant source of nectar for native birds. It can grow as a sprawling shrub between 1.5 to 6 meters tall, with arching branches. The species is critically endangered in the wild, with only a small number of specimens remaining.

Quick Facts

Kakabeak quick facts
Scientific Name	Clianthus maximus
Height	2-4 m
Spread	2-3 m
Water Needs	Low to moderate
Light	Full sun to part shade
Frost Tolerance	Moderate
Salt Tolerance	Poor
Growth Rate	Moderate
Lifespan	Medium

Climate Best Suited to

Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) prefers dry, warm climates similar to its native range. This hardy shrub thrives in areas with low humidity and excellent drainage. It adapts well to typical New Zealand growing conditions with appropriate care and positioning.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Desert Pea
City	Climate Suitability
Whangārei	Ideal
Auckland	Ideal
Hamilton	Ideal
Tauranga	Ideal
Rotorua	Ideal
Gisborne	Ideal
New Plymouth	Ideal
Napier	Ideal
Whanganui	Ideal
Palmerston North	Ideal
Wellington	Ideal
Nelson	Ideal
Christchurch	Ideal
Dunedin	Ideal
Invercargill	Ideal

Natural Habitat

Clianthus maximus, commonly known as Kakabeak, is a woody legume shrub native to the North Island of New Zealand. It is primarily found in scattered populations along the East Coast, from Te Araroa south to northern Hawke's Bay, and in Te Urewera in the west. Its natural habitat includes early to mid-successional shrubland, often dominated by flax (Phormium cookianum and P. tenax) and tutu (Coriaria arborea). This species commonly grows on unstable cliff faces, rock falls, bluffs, coastal cliffs, riverbanks, lake margins, and rocky outcrops. It prefers open, sunny, and steep sites. Clianthus maximus thrives in warm, sheltered microclimates with well-drained, sandy soils that are neutral to slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. It is adapted to grow in infertile sites due to its nitrogen-fixing ability, and its seeds can germinate in response to light gaps created by disturbances like tree-falls or slips. Historically, some inland populations may have been influenced by Mori cultivation.

Plant Conservation

Clianthus maximus, also known as kaka beak or kōwhai ngutu-kākā, is classified as "Nationally Critical" in New Zealand. This conservation status has been in place since 2009.

There are only 153 confirmed trees of Clianthus maximus remaining in the wild, a significant decrease from over 1000 in 1996. These wild populations are found in the East Coast and northern Hawke's Bay regions of New Zealand's North Island.

The species faces numerous threats, including browsing animals (such as deer, goats, pigs, hares, stock, and introduced garden snails), disease, fire, erosion, habitat modification and loss, natural succession to forest, catastrophic events like floods and landslides, and competition from exotic weeds. Despite its critical status in the wild, Clianthus maximus is widely available in cultivation in New Zealand.

Growing Requirements

Soil Requirements

Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) performs best in well-draining soil that retains adequate moisture. Like most New Zealand natives, it prefers soils that don't become waterlogged but maintain consistent moisture levels. Good drainage is essential for healthy root development.

Well-draining soil essential for healthy growth
Prefers consistent moisture without waterlogging
Adapts to various soil types with good drainage
Benefits from organic matter incorporation
Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds

Light Requirements

Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) performs well in full sun to partial shade conditions. Like many New Zealand natives, it adapts to various light conditions but typically shows best growth and form in positions that receive adequate sunlight throughout the day.

Full sun to partial shade positions
At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
Tolerates light shade in warmer climates
Morning sun particularly beneficial

Water Requirements

Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) requires regular watering during establishment, typically for the first 1-2 years. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root problems.

Regular watering during establishment phase
Moderate drought tolerance once established
Consistent moisture during dry periods beneficial
Avoid waterlogged conditions
Mulching helps conserve soil moisture

Planting Guide

When to Plant

The ideal time to plant Kakabeak (Clianthus maximus) is in spring after the last frost, or in early autumn. This allows the plant to establish its root system in moderate temperatures before the extremes of summer heat or winter cold. Ensure the soil is workable and well-drained.

How to Plant

Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained soil. Kakabeak prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and to the same depth. Carefully remove the plant from its container, being mindful not to disturb the roots excessively. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil and remove air pockets. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the root zone cool. Provide a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis or fence, as Kakabeak is a sprawling shrub that benefits from support to display its flowers effectively.

Ecological Role

Clianthus maximus, also known as kaka beak or kōwhai ngutu-kākā, plays several important ecological roles in its native New Zealand environment:

Nitrogen Fixation: As a member of the pea family (Fabaceae), Clianthus maximus is capable of nitrogen fixation, which enriches the soil.
Pollinator Support: Its distinctive red flowers provide nectar, attracting native birds and beneficial insects, thereby supporting local wildlife.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health: The species contributes to local biodiversity and is considered important for maintaining native plant communities and supporting ecosystem restoration efforts.
Habitat and Disturbance Adaptation: Clianthus maximus thrives in early to mid-successional shrubland habitats, often found in disturbed areas such as unstable cliff faces, rock falls, or along the edges of lakes and streams.
Seed Bank Formation: The plant produces long-lived seeds that can remain viable for up to 30 years, creating a "seed bank." These seeds germinate in response to light gaps, enabling the plant to persist in frequently disturbed shrubland environments.

Uses & Significance

Garden Uses

Excellent for native plant gardens and restoration
Suitable for naturalistic landscape designs
Low maintenance once established
Contributes to local biodiversity
Attractive to beneficial native wildlife

Landscaping Uses

Kakabeak (Clianthus maximus) is a highly valued New Zealand native shrub for its striking aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits in landscaping. Its vibrant, parrot-beak shaped red flowers and delicate, fern-like foliage make it a showstopper in various garden settings.

Feature Plant: Its spectacular flower display makes it an excellent focal point in gardens, drawing attention with its unique form and color.
Wildlife Attraction: The nectar-rich blooms attract native birds like Tūī and bellbirds, enhancing garden biodiversity and bringing life to the landscape.
Coastal Gardens: Tolerant of coastal conditions and exposed sites, making it a suitable choice for seaside plantings where many other plants struggle.
Dry Areas: Once established, Kakabeak can tolerate dry soil conditions, making it a good option for water-wise gardening.
Trained Specimens: Its sprawling habit allows it to be trained as a climber or espaliered against walls and fences, adding vertical interest and maximizing space.
Container Planting: Can be successfully grown in large pots, offering flexibility for smaller spaces, patios, or for moving to sheltered locations during harsh weather.
Native Plantings: Integrates beautifully into native New Zealand garden designs, contributing to a cohesive and ecologically appropriate landscape.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Spring is an active growth period for Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus). New growth emerges and this is an ideal time for planting new specimens. Monitor soil moisture as temperatures warm and growth accelerates.

Active growth period with new foliage development
Ideal time for planting new specimens
Monitor soil moisture as temperatures rise
Apply organic mulch if needed

Summer

Summer is typically the main growing season for Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus). Ensure adequate watering during hot, dry periods, especially for young plants. Established plants show good heat tolerance with appropriate care.

Peak growing season with active development
Monitor watering needs during hot weather
Young plants need consistent moisture
Established plants show good heat tolerance

Autumn

During autumn, Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) begins to slow its growth as temperatures cool. This is another good time for planting as conditions become more favorable. Reduce watering frequency but maintain soil moisture.

Growth slows as temperatures moderate
Good time for planting new specimens
Reduce watering frequency gradually
Maintain soil moisture without overwatering

Winter

Winter is typically a dormant period for Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus), with minimal growth activity. Reduce watering but ensure plants don't completely dry out. Most New Zealand natives are cold-hardy and require minimal winter protection.

Dormant period with minimal growth activity
Reduce watering but avoid complete drying
Generally cold-hardy in most New Zealand climates
Minimal winter protection required

When to Prune and How Much

Desert Pea (Clianthus maximus) generally requires minimal pruning to maintain its natural form and health. Most maintenance involves removing dead or damaged growth and light shaping if needed.

Remove dead, damaged, or diseased growth as needed
Light pruning to maintain shape if desired
Prune after flowering if applicable
Avoid heavy pruning which can stress the plant
Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease
Most natives maintain good form without regular pruning

Always use clean, sharp tools when pruning to minimize disease risk. Native plants typically maintain their natural form well and often require less intervention than exotic species.

How to Grow Kakabeak

From Conservation Seeds

Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Conservation seed propagation represents the most crucial method for growing Kakabeak, serving as a lifeline for this critically endangered species while providing opportunities for dedicated gardeners to participate in conservation efforts for New Zealand's rarest plant. This magnificent legume produces remarkably long-lived seeds that remain viable for up to 30 years, offering exceptional opportunities for conservation breeding and population restoration when proper techniques are employed. Seeds provide the genetic diversity essential for maintaining healthy populations while allowing propagation from ethically sourced conservation stock available through specialized native plant nurseries and conservation organizations. The species' natural germination response to light gaps reflects its evolutionary adaptation to forest edge environments, requiring specific environmental cues that can be replicated in cultivation to achieve reliable germination success. Obtain seeds only from reputable conservation sources that maintain genetic diversity and provenance records, ensuring contributions to legitimate conservation efforts rather than potentially depleting wild populations through unauthorized collection. Seeds require scarification treatment to break through the hard seed coat evolved for long-term survival in natural environments, using gentle sandpaper abrasion or brief hot water treatment to create small openings that allow water penetration without damaging internal structures. Prepare specialized germination medium using well-draining mix with excellent aeration properties, incorporating coarse sand, perlite, and quality potting mix to replicate the free-draining soils where this species naturally establishes in cliff and bank environments. Sow treated seeds in individual containers to avoid transplant shock, placing them 5-10mm deep in moist growing medium while maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging throughout the germination period. Provide bright light conditions that trigger the natural germination response evolved for establishing in forest clearings, using grow lights or bright indirect sunlight to simulate the light gap conditions that prompt emergence in wild populations. Maintain warm, stable temperatures between 18-22°C throughout germination, providing the consistent environmental conditions necessary for successful emergence while monitoring for signs of fungal problems that can affect developing seedlings. Germination typically occurs within 2-6 weeks under optimal conditions, though some seeds may require longer periods before responding to environmental cues, requiring patience and consistent care throughout the extended germination window. Young seedlings develop slowly initially while establishing the nitrogen-fixing root nodules characteristic of legume species, requiring specialized attention to prevent transplant shock during the vulnerable establishment phase when root systems are developing. Transplant carefully when seedlings reach 5-10cm height with well-developed root systems, using deep containers that accommodate the taproot development essential for long-term plant health and drought tolerance. This method provides the highest genetic diversity for conservation purposes while offering gardeners the rewarding experience of growing one of New Zealand's most endangered and spectacular native plants from seed to maturity.

From Semi-Hardwood Cuttings

Difficulty: Advanced

Semi-hardwood cutting propagation offers a valuable vegetative method for growing Kakabeak that preserves the exact genetic characteristics of exceptional parent plants while contributing to conservation efforts through maintaining specific genetic lines in cultivation. This approach is particularly important for preserving unique forms or superior characteristics identified in conservation breeding programs, ensuring that valuable genetic material is not lost through the relatively short 15-20 year lifespan of individual plants. The technique requires advanced horticultural skills and careful attention to environmental conditions, as this critically endangered species can be challenging to propagate vegetatively compared to more common native plants. Take semi-hardwood cuttings during late summer to early autumn when current season's growth has begun to firm up but still retains some flexibility, selecting healthy shoots from the middle portions of vigorous branches that show no signs of disease or stress. Choose cutting material that represents the best characteristics of the parent plant, including robust growth habit, disease resistance, and flowering potential that can be preserved through vegetative propagation for conservation purposes. Cut sections 10-15cm in length with clean, sharp secateurs, ensuring each cutting includes at least 2-3 nodes while selecting material from shoots that show the characteristic fern-like leaflet arrangement typical of healthy Kakabeak growth. Remove lower leaflets carefully to reduce water loss while retaining sufficient photosynthetic surface area, taking care not to damage the delicate comāpound leaves that are essential for cutting survival during the rooting process. Apply specialized rooting hormone formulated for woody legumes immediately after preparation, using hormone concentrations appropriate for semi-hardwood material to enhance root initiation in this sometimes reluctant species. Insert prepared cuttings into well-draining cutting mix composed of equal parts quality propagation medium and coarse sand, ensuring excellent drainage while maintaining the consistent moisture levels essential for root development without creating waterlogged conditions that can lead to cutting failure. Maintain high humidity around cuttings using humidity domes or misting systems while providing bright, indirect light that supports photosynthesis without causing excessive transpiration stress that can quickly kill developing cuttings. Monitor environmental conditions meticulously throughout the rooting period, maintaining consistent temperatures around 18-20°C and humidity levels of 85-90% while ensuring adequate air circulation to prevent fungal problems that commonly affect rare species propagation efforts. Root development occurs slowly over 3-6 months, requiring exceptional patience and consistent environmental management as this endangered species requires longer establishment periods than common natives, with success rates varying considerably even under optimal conditions. Success rates can be disappointingly low even with perfect technique, making this method most suitable for experienced propagators working within conservation programs where maintaining specific genetic lines justifies the intensive effort required for successful vegetative propagation of this critically endangered species.

From Natural Layering

Difficulty: Moderate

Natural layering provides an exceptionally valuable propagation method for Kakabeak that takes advantage of this species' evolved ability to spread through long, trailing stems that naturally develop roots when they contact suitable growing medium. This technique mimics the natural reproduction strategy that has allowed this critically endangered species to persist in its few remaining wild populations, making it both ecologically authentic and practically effective for conservation-minded gardeners. The method works particularly well with Kakabeak because of its natural growth habit of developing extensive trailing branches that can reach 2-3 meters in length, creating numerous opportunities for successful layering that require minimal intervention while maintaining connection to parent plants throughout establishment. Understanding this natural process provides insights into the species' ecology while offering reliable propagation techniques that support conservation efforts through increasing cultivated populations. Select healthy, flexible trailing stems from the current season's growth during spring when active growth is beginning, choosing branches that demonstrate the vigorous development characteristic of healthy Kakabeak specimens. Identify suitable locations where selected stems can be brought into contact with prepared growing medium, creating layering sites that provide optimal establishment conditions while allowing developing layers to remain connected to the parent plant's established root system throughout the critical establishment period. Prepare layering sites by incorporating organic matter and ensuring excellent drainage characteristics that replicate the free-draining cliff and bank environments where this species naturally thrives, avoiding waterlogged conditions that can quickly kill developing root systems. Create shallow wounds in the stem at points where it will contact the growing medium, using a sharp knife to make small cuts that expose the cambium layer where new roots will develop most readily without severely damaging the trailing branch. Secure wounded stem sections in contact with prepared growing medium using wire pins, small stones, or specialized layering pegs, ensuring consistent contact while allowing natural growth processes to proceed without excessive mechanical restriction. Cover layered sections with 5-10cm of well-draining growing mix enriched with organic matter, providing growing conditions that support rapid root development while maintaining the moisture levels necessary for successful establishment of this moisture-sensitive species. Mark layering sites clearly to prevent accidental disturbance and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season, as reliable water availability is critical for root development in this species that requires careful moisture management for optimal growth. Monitor layered sections regularly for signs of successful rooting, typically indicated by new shoot growth emerging from covered areas after 6-12 months under favorable conditions, before attempting to sever connections to parent plants. This method provides excellent success rates with relatively simple techniques while maintaining the genetic characteristics of superior parent plants, making it ideal for gardeners seeking to contribute to Kakabeak conservation through expanding cultivated populations with minimal specialized equipment or advanced propagation skills.

Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

Kakabeak (Clianthus maximus) is vulnerable to a range of pests. Slugs and snails can severely defoliate the plant, especially young specimens, and are most damaging in winter and early spring. Caterpillars, particularly the native clianthus caterpillar, can strip leaves overnight. Mites, including two-spotted mite, broom mite, and the specific kaka beak gall mite (Aceria clianthi), can cause witches' brooms and distorted leaves. Leaf miners create distinctive white tunnel-like markings on leaves. Thrips and aphids can also be problematic. In the wild, introduced herbivores such as rats, goats, rabbits, pigs, and deer pose a significant threat, with goats being particularly destructive.

Disease Prevention

Kakabeak can be affected by various fungal diseases. Root rot is a common issue if the plant is in waterlogged conditions, making good drainage essential. Leaf spot can be managed by removing affected leaves and improving air circulation. To prevent these issues, grow plants in fertile, well-drained, sunny sites free from surrounding shrubs. Regular monitoring and maintaining healthy growing conditions can prevent most problems. Pruning after flowering encourages new bushy growth and helps maintain plant health. Galls caused by mites should be removed as soon as they appear. Ensuring good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.

Cultural Significance

Kakabeak, or kwhai ngutu-kk, holds deep cultural significance for Mori. Its name, meaning "kk parrot's beak," reflects its striking flower shape. Traditionally, the plant was admired for its beauty and was sometimes used in traditional medicine (rongo) for its medicinal properties. Its rarity and unique appearance also make it a symbol of New Zealand's unique botanical heritage and the importance of conservation efforts.

Bonus Tip

Kakabeak (Clianthus maximus) is a critically endangered species in the wild, with only a handful of plants remaining. By growing this magnificent plant in your garden, you are directly contributing to its conservation and helping to preserve New Zealand's unique botanical heritage. Its long-lived seeds (up to 30 years) make it an excellent candidate for seed banking and restoration projects.