This sub-shrub has trailing or scrambling stems that form a compact prostrate habit. It has divided leaves with silvery pointed needle-like leaflets and the scarlet pea-shaped flowers appear singularly or in pairs along the stems from spring to summer.   

Hardiness zones 10 to 12 

Lotus berthelotii is naturally found from the Canary Islands to the Cape Verde Islands growing along the cost on rocky hill sides in well drained moderately fertile sandy-stony soils. It prefers an open sunny position and is drought and frost tender.

Parrot's Beak is grown for its flowers and its prostrate habit. It is planted in tropical gardens as a ground cover or spill over above retaining walls. It is also used in hanging baskets or as a glasshouse specimen in cool regions. It is suitable for coastal areas establishing in 2 to 3 years. ID 2867

Lotus (LOH-tus) berthelotii (ber-the-LOH-tee-eye)

Fabaceae (fab-AY-see-ee)