kaka-bill

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

n.


a New Zealand plant, the Clianthus (q.v.), so called from the supposedresemblance of the flower to the bill of the Kaka (q.v.). Called also Parrot-bill, Glory-Pea, and Kowhai (q.v.).

1842. W. R. Wade, `Journey in New Zealand,' [Hobart Town].p. 196:

«Kowai ngutukaka [parrot-bill kowai]; the most elegantflowering shrub of the country.»

1892. `Otago Witness,' Nov. 24, `Native Trees':

«A plantation of a shrub which is in great demand in Englandand on the Continent, and is greatly neglected here – – the Clianthus puniceus, or scarlet glory pea of New Zealand,locally known as kaka beak.»

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