The “eggs and bacon flower,” scientifically known as Lotus berthelotii, is a distinctive plant celebrated for its unique floral display. It is also recognized by common names like Parrot’s Beak and Coral Gem Vine. Its popular moniker comes from the vibrant yellow and deep orange or red hues of its blooms.
Identifying the Eggs and Bacon Flower
Lotus berthelotii is easily identified by its unique physical characteristics. Its most prominent feature is the distinct, claw-shaped or beak-like flowers, which emerge in striking shades of fiery red, deep orange, or brilliant yellow, often with contrasting tips, giving them the appearance of cooked eggs and bacon. These unusual blooms typically appear in late spring through summer.
The plant features fine, needle-like foliage that is distinctly silver-green or gray-green in color. It exhibits a trailing or mounding growth habit, making it suitable for hanging baskets, containers, or as a groundcover. Native to the Canary Islands, Lotus berthelotii thrives in warm, sunny environments.
Essential Care for Your Eggs and Bacon Flower
Light Requirements
The “eggs and bacon flower” thrives in ample sunlight for robust growth and prolific blooming. Full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, is ideal for vibrant flower color and dense foliage. While it tolerates some bright indirect light, insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Watering Needs
Consistent watering is important for Lotus berthelotii. The plant prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings, preventing root rot. During active growth (spring and summer), water more frequently, especially in warmer climates or smaller containers. Conversely, reduce watering frequency during cooler or dormant periods to prevent waterlogging.
Soil and Potting
Selecting the correct soil mix and potting environment is important for the “eggs and bacon flower.” A well-draining substrate is paramount, such as a sandy loam mix or a standard potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. When potting, ensure containers have adequate drainage holes. While often grown in pots, it can be planted directly in the ground in frost-free zones, thriving in rockeries or as a cascading element over walls.
Temperature and Humidity
Lotus berthelotii prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to cold. It thrives above 50°F (10°C) and cannot tolerate frost. In regions with cold winters, it is typically grown as an annual or brought indoors. The plant tolerates average household humidity levels and performs well in drier climates.
Fertilization
During its active growing season (spring through summer), the “eggs and bacon flower” benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, applied at half strength every two to four weeks, can support healthy growth and abundant flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. During dormancy or cooler months, reduce or cease fertilization.
Propagating and Pruning
Propagating the “eggs and bacon flower” is most commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, approximately 4-6 inches long, removing the lower leaves. These cuttings root best when dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining, moist potting mix. While seed propagation is possible, it is less common for home gardeners due to lower germination rates and slower growth.
Pruning Lotus berthelotii serves several purposes, including maintaining its shape, encouraging bushier growth, and promoting continuous flowering. Light pruning throughout the growing season can help keep the plant compact and prevent it from becoming leggy. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, is particularly beneficial as it redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to producing new blooms, extending the flowering period.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
A lack of blooms often indicates insufficient light; moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight can encourage flowering. Yellowing leaves can signal either overwatering, leading to root rot, or underwatering, where the plant is not receiving enough moisture. Adjusting watering practices to allow the soil to dry slightly between applications can resolve this.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems with few leaves, is another sign of inadequate light and can be corrected by increasing light exposure and performing light pruning to promote bushier growth. Lotus berthelotii can also be susceptible to common garden pests such as aphids and spider mites, particularly in stressed conditions. A gentle insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water can often manage these infestations effectively.