Clianthus

▪ plant genus

      genus of flowering shrubs of the pea family (Fabaceae). Its two species, C. puniceus and C. formosus, are native to New Zealand and Australia, respectively. They grow to 1–2 m (3–6 feet) tall and in the spring bear brilliant red flowers (whence the name, from Greek, kleios, “glory,” and anthos, “flower”). The flowers, 7.5–10 cm (3–4 inches) or longer, are downward-turning with one standard, or upturned, petal. Leaves are pinnate, with one to two dozen short leaflets alternating along the stem.

      C. puniceus, the parrot's bill, or red kowhai, grows outdoors in warm dry climates and sandy well-drained soils. It can be trained as a vine to grow on a wall or trellis. The shoots are pruned once flowering is over.

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