Clianthus puniceus ‘white Kākābeak’ (kākābeak, kōwhai ngutukākā) is a striking New Zealand native shrub in the Fabaceae family, known for its dramatic clusters of rare white or creamy-white flowers, curved “beak-shaped” flowers in spring, set against soft grey-green foliage, typically growing 1–2 metres tall and spreading wider, making it ideal for feature planting, containers, and sheltered gardens; it thrives in full sun with free-draining soil, and while fast-growing, it is short-lived, requiring protection from frost, strong wind, and wet soils to perform well.
The Kākābeak’ requires moderate to high maintenance compared with many other native shrubs. It benefits from regular pruning after flowering to encourage a compact, bushy shape and improve future flowering, as well as protection from frost, wind, and heavy, wet soils. It also performs best with consistent watering during dry periods and occasional feeding in poor soils, while careful siting in a warm, sheltered position is key to long-term success.
Clianthus puniceus 'white Kakabeak'
Botanical Name Clianthus puniceus Maori Name kākābeak, kōwhai ngutukākā Common Name ‘white Kākābeak’ Family Fabaceae Type Small Tree, semi deciduous Origin New Zealand Mature Height 1-2m Mature Spread 2m Sun Requirements Full sun to part shade Soil Prefers free draining soil Flowering rare white or creamy-white flowers, curved “beak-shaped” Wind Tolerance low wind tolerance, prefers shelted areas Frost Tolerance frost tender Drought Tolerance Prefers free drained soil, watering over dry periods Growth Rate Fast growing in right environment Maintenance Moderate Conservation Status Not Threatened Well adapted to various New Zealand regions.
