Clianthus
Common name: Parrot's Bill
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Overview:
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Clianthus c. puniceus is a genus of evergreen climbing shrubs or sub-shrub, originating from New Zealand which can grow to a height of up to 12 ft.
It is suitable mainly for greenhouse cultivation, but can be grown outdoors in mild districts.
It is best planted out in a position where it can be trained to wires or trellis on a wall.
Clusters of six or more crimson-scarlet, claw-shaped flowers, appear in May and June, and are approximately 100mm (4”) long.
There is a white form Albus.
Prune back plants only if they are becoming too large after flowering.
If grown outdoors give it protection against a warm wall.
In winter cover the base of the plants with a 300mm (12”) mulch of either, bracken, ashes or coarse sand to protect the root system from penetrating frosts.
In severe frosts, cover the plant with agricultural fleece to protect the branches.
If grown in the greenhouse border or in the house, a minimum winter temperature of 4°C (40°F) is required, to ensure early flower production.
Throughout winter, keep on the dry side.
In spring and summer, give ample water and spray the leaves frequently to discourage red spider mites.
Maintain a moist atmosphere in summer, and allow full ventilation at all times, except during fog or in low temperatures.
Cultivation:
Week 12:
Sow seeds in pots/trays of seed compost, and germinate at a temperature of 16°C (60°F)
Prick out the seedlings, when large enough to handle, into 75mm (3”) pots.
Circa Week 18 >:
Pot on into 125mm (5”) pots and eventually plant out in the greenhouse border.
The plants will flower two to three years after planting out.
Week 26:
Take 75mm (3”) long heel cuttings of lateral shoots and root in 75mm (3”) pots of seed compost.
Place in propagator at a temperature of 18°C (65°F)