Lotus vine (Lotus berthelotii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lotus vine on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Lotus vine
Lotus berthelotii, commonly known as parrot's beak, is a trailing or prostrate perennial plant native to the Canary Islands. It is distinguished by its exotic, curved, bright red or orange flowers, which resemble a parrot's beak. It is ideal for hanging baskets, rockeries, or as a ground cover in warm climates, adding a vibrant and tropical touch.
Native range
Canary Islands
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering, although it appreciates some partial shade during the hottest hours of the day. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging, to which it is very sensitive. It prefers well-drained and sandy soil. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to underwater than to overwater.
How to save a dying Lotus vine
- Warning signs
- Leaves losing silvery color, wilting, or turning brown and dry.
- First aid
- Check watering (soil dry, not waterlogged). Place in bright light but protected from intense midday sun if very hot. If potted, check drainage.
- What kills it
- Overwatering that rots roots or complete lack of light. Also, scorching summer sun without protection.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient if given proper conditions.