Lower Risk

Lotus berthelotii (Parrot's Beak, Coral Gem)

This trailing, perennial herb/shrub is native to the Canary Islands, although is now thought to be extinct in the wild. Despite being in the ornamental trade in Australia since 1901, the species has not naturalised. There is also no evidence Parrot’s Beak has naturalised or become invasive elsewhere outside its native range. Reproduction is via seed. A closely related species, Lotus corniculatus, is an environmental weed in Australia (including in NSW). The common name comes from the deep orange-red parrot beak shaped flowers that appear in spring and summer. It is a stark contrast to the silver grey needle like foliage.