Clianthus puniceus , commonly known as Kakabeak ( Kōwhai Ngutu-kākā in Māori ), is a woody legume shrub native to New Zealand 's North Island . It is one of two species of Clianthus (Kakabeak) and both have striking clusters of red flowers which resemble the beak of the Kākā , a New Zealand parrot. The plant is also known as Parrot's Beak , Parrot's Bill and Lobster Claw . There is also a variety with white to creamy coloured flowers.