How to Grow Kangaroo Paw

Kangaroo Paw

Anigozanthos flavidus

flower

Kangaroo Paw is a striking perennial native to Western Australia, known for its distinctive fuzzy, tubular flower spikes that resemble a kangaroo's paw. The plants produce tall stems with bold red, orange, yellow, or bicolor flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. They are popular ornamental plants that attract hummingbirds and are excellent as cut flowers.

Looking for a specific variety?

Anigozanthos flavidus Anigozanthos manglesii Anigozanthos gabrielae Anigozanthos viridis Anigozanthos humilis Anigozanthos pulcherrimus

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates

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Water: Water moderately during growing season; reduce in winter. Prefers drier conditions once established. Avoid overwatering, which causes root rot. Drought-tolerant after establishment.

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Spacing: 24 inches

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Days to maturity: 365-730 (flowers appear 18-24 months from planting)

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Planting depth: Crown at soil level; do not bury

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gravelly loam

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Coarse sand Perlite Gravel Minimal organic matter

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in containers in cooler zones

9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Establishment

6-12 months

Young plant develops rhizomatous root system and sword-like foliage. Leaves are narrow, green, and emerge from the base.

Water sparingly but consistently. Ensure excellent drainage. Protect from excessive moisture. Avoid fertilizing; can promote rot.

Vegetative Growth

6-12 months

Plant expands foliage clumps with multiple shoots. Leaves reach full length of 12-24 inches depending on variety.

Continue minimal watering. Apply well-balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer sparingly in spring if needed. Remove any dead foliage.

Flowering

6-8 weeks per cycle; may rebloom with deadheading

Tall flower spikes (12-36 inches) emerge, producing distinctive fuzzy, tubular flowers in red, orange, yellow, pink, or bicolor combinations.

Maintain consistent watering during bloom. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Stake tall varieties if needed in windy areas.

Post-Bloom

2-3 months

Flowers fade and seed pods may develop. Foliage remains attractive throughout season.

Remove spent flower stems. Reduce watering in winter dormancy. Do not prune foliage unless damaged.

Dormancy/Winter

2-4 months

In cooler zones, plant goes dormant with minimal growth. Foliage persists but stops actively growing.

Water very sparingly. Protect from frost in zones 9a-9b; mulch around base or move containers indoors. No feeding.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Banksia Grevillea Bottlebrush Dianella Lavender Catmint Grasses like Miscanthus Desert Rose

Avoid planting near:

Heavy feeders like tomatoes Plants requiring frequent watering like hydrangeas Crowded plantings that reduce air circulation Plants preferring acidic, humus-rich soil

Common Pests

Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; remove heavily infested foliage
Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with neem oil; improve air circulation
Prune affected stems; spray with horticultural oil; monitor for reinfestation
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants; amend soil with sand and perlite

Uses

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Flower Arrangements

Culinary

Kangaroo Paw flowers are prized by florists and gardeners for exotic, long-lasting cut flower arrangements. Their unique fuzzy texture and bold colors add dramatic visual impact to bouquets and displays. [source]

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Hummingbird & Pollinator Attraction

Wildlife

The tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds, sunbirds, and other nectar-feeding birds and insects. They serve as a reliable nectar source during their long blooming season. [source]

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Dried Flower Crafts

Craft

Kangaroo Paw flowers dry well and retain their color and form for months, making them ideal for dried arrangements, wreaths, and floral crafts. [source]

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Ornamental Landscaping

Household

These striking perennials are valued as statement plants in xeriscaping, Mediterranean gardens, and contemporary landscape designs, particularly in warm climates. Their architectural form and vibrant flowers provide year-round visual interest. [source]

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Traditional Aboriginal Uses

Medicinal

Indigenous Australians have traditionally used Kangaroo Paw flowers and foliage in folk remedies, though modern scientific validation of medicinal properties is limited. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Cut flower spikes when the lowest florets on the spike are open but top buds remain fuzzy. Cut at soil level or just below lowest leaves. Flowers last 2-3 weeks in water and are excellent for arrangements. Leave some spikes to mature on plant for continuous blooms.

Fun Facts

🌱 The flower's common name comes from its fuzzy, tubular appearance that closely resembles a kangaroo's furry paw, a distinctly Australian reference.
🌱 Kangaroo Paw is the official emblem of Western Australia and appears on the state's coat of arms and various official symbols.
🌱 The plant produces flowers in nearly every warm color of the spectrum, and breeding has expanded the color palette to include rare pink and burgundy varieties, making them highly sought after by horticulturists.

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