Table of Contents
Kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos sp.) It is a unique-looking plant that is indigenous to Australia. It gets its name from its flowers which resemble a kangaroo’s paw.
The kangaroo paw is not only an attractive-looking plant, but it is also relatively easy to care for. In this article, we will go over the basics of kangaroo paw plant care.
Kangaroo Paw
The flower is a unique and spectacular plant that is native to Australia. There are 11 different kangaroo paw species, all striking and beautiful in their way. The most popular variety is the Anigozanthos flavidus or yellow kangaroo paw.
The plant is relatively easy to care for and makes an excellent addition to any garden. They are hardy and drought-tolerant and will thrive in most conditions. However, they do best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Uses for Kangaroo Paw
Uses for this flower include as an ornamental plant, in cut flower arrangements, and as a drought-tolerant plant. The varieties include the Tall Kangaroo Paw, which can grow up to 3 feet tall, and the Dwarf Kangaroo Paw, which only grows to about 12 inches tall.
The most popular flower is the red-and-green variety, which is also the official flower of Western Australia.
Types of Kangaroo Paw Plants
There are many different kangaroo paw plants, which can be divided into two main categories: those with red flowers and those with greenish-yellow flowers.
- The most common variety is the Red Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos Rufus), which is native to Australia and has bright red flowers.
- Other popular types include the Yellow Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos flavidus) and the Green Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos Viridis), both native to Western Australia.
Kangaroo Paw Flower Colours
The flower colours range from deep reds to bright yellows and everything in between. The flowers may be single or double blooms, depending on the variety. There are even some varieties that have striped flowers! When choosing a kangaroo paw plant for your garden, you must consider the flower colour you are hoping for.
Red colour is a good option if you want a kangaroo paw plant with showy flowers. This variety has dark red flowers with yellow tips. Yellow is another striking choice, with its vibrant yellow blooms. For something a little different, Orange Kangaroo Paw has orange-red flowers with yellow centres.
Amber Velvet
Amber Velvet is a beautiful variety known for its vibrant yellow flowers. This is native to Australia and thrives in hot, dry climates. When cared for properly, Amber Velvet can reach up to 3 feet in height.
If you’re interested in growing them in your garden, Amber Velvet is a great variety to start with.
Gold Velvet
Gold Velvet is a popular variety known for its bright gold flowers. The blooms of this plant are large and stand out against the deep green foliage. This variety is easy to care for and makes a beautiful addition to any garden.
If you are looking for a variety that is easy to care for and produces beautiful flowers, Gold Velvet is a great option.
Regal Velvet
Regal Velvet is one of the most popular varieties. It is known for its beautiful, deep red flowers. The plant grows about 2-3 feet tall and has long slender leaves.
Regal Velvet is an excellent option if you want to add some colour to your garden. These plants are relatively easy to care for.
Ruby Velvet
Ruby Velvet is a hybrid that blooms in shades of deep red with yellow anthers. It is a very drought-tolerant plant and can reach up to 3 feet.
Ruby Velvet is one of the most extended blooming varieties. The flowers will bloom from spring until fall if given proper care.
Kangaroo Paws Range
- In Size From 12 To 24 Inches In Height.
- They Are Narrow Plants That Grow In Clusters Of 2-5 Stems.
- The Foliage Is Long And Narrow, Growing Up To 18 Inches In Length.
- The Leaves Are Typically A Bright Green Color, But Some Varieties May Have Yellow Or Purple Foliage.
- The Flowers Are Tall And Columnar, Growing Up To 12 Inches In Length.
- The Flowers May Be Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Or Blue, Depending On The Variety.
How To Grow Kangaroo Paws
Here’s a starter guide to growing.
If you’re looking for a plant sure to make a statement, then this flower is definitely for you! But before you run out and buy one, you should know a few things about how to grow them.
Soils
These plants are not too particular about soils as long as they are well-drained. They will grow in sandy soils as well as clay. If you have heavy clay soil, consider adding some organic matter to help with drainage. They are also slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Light
Light is vital to this flower. They need at least six hours of sunlight each day to thrive. If you live in an area with long winters, it’s a good idea to grow your flower indoors under grow lights.
Water
It requires regular watering, wildly when the plant is blooming. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. These plants are drought tolerant, so you don’t need to worry about overwatering them. However, if the soil is too dry, the flower will stop blooming.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature and humidity are two important factors when growing these plants. These plants thrive in warm, humid conditions and can tolerate some shade. However, they will not tolerate cold temperatures. If you live in an area with cool winters, it is best to grow them indoors or in a greenhouse.
Fertilizer
The flower doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can damage the plant. If you need fertilizer, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer and apply it sparingly. Once a month is usually enough.
Seasons
Flower seasons are critical when it comes to planting care. Depending on the variety, flowers can bloom in spring, summer, or even autumn. Check the flowering period of your specific type so you can plan accordingly.
Planting and Dividing
Planting is best done in the spring or fall. The plant does not tolerate freezing temperatures, so if you live in an area that experiences freezing winters, it’s best to plant them in a pot that can be brought indoors when the weather gets cold.
Dividing the flower is best done every three to four years. This will help keep the plant healthy and prevent it from becoming overcrowded. To divide, dig up the entire plant and carefully pull it apart into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a good amount of roots. Plant the divisions in new areas or pots filled with fresh potting mix.
Pruning
The flower doesn’t require a lot of pruning. You can deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooming, but other than that, there’s no need to prune these plants.
Potting and Repotting
The flower is best kept in containers slightly larger than the root ball. These plants tend to spread quickly, so you’ll need to repot them every one to two years to keep them under control. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and water your plant regularly, letting the soil dry out between waterings.
Overwintering
Overwintering is best done in a cool, dry place with plenty of air circulation. Most varieties are not frost-hardy and must be protected from freezing temperatures.
If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s best to grow these flowers as an annual plant. In the spring, start to plant them indoors from seed or purchase transplants from a nursery. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant the flower into the garden.
Common Pests and Diseases
Like any other plant, kangaroo paws are susceptible to pests and diseases. The most common pests that attack kangaroo paws are aphids, mealybugs, scales, and thrips.
These pests will suck the sap out of the plant, causing it to become weakened and stressed. The best way to prevent problems is to keep your kangaroo paw plant healthy and happy. Here are some tips on how to do that:
Black Ink Spot Disease
Black ink Spot disease is the most common disease to affect kangaroo paws. The spots appear as small, black lesions on the plant’s leaves. If left untreated, the disease can spread quickly and kill the plant.
To prevent Black Ink Spot disease, water the kangaroo paw plants at the base of the plant rather than from above. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. If the plant is already infected, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly.
Rust
Rust is one of the common diseases seen in the kangaroo paw plant. The disease is caused by a fungus called Puccinia spegazzinii. This disease attacks the leaves of the plant and causes them to turn yellow and brown. The affected leaves will eventually fall off the plant. If the plant is heavily infected, it may die.
Water the plant in the morning to prevent rust, so the leaves have time to dry before nightfall. Avoid watering the plant at night, as this can encourage fungal growth. If you see any rust on the leaves, remove them and destroy them. You can also spray the plant with a fungicide to help prevent rust from developing.
Aphids
Aphids, mealybugs, Scale insects, and whiteflies may attack kangaroo paw plants. These pests are often found on the underside of leaves and can cause leaf distortion or yellowing.
To control these pests, wash them off with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap. Spider mites may also infest kangaroo paw plants, causing stippling on the leaves. These pests can be controlled with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Root and Crown Rot
These are the two most common problems regarding kangaroo paw plant care. Both can be avoided by ensuring the plant is in well-draining soil. If you live in an area with clay soil, consider planting your kangaroo paw in a raised bed. This will help ensure that water drains away from the plant’s roots.
If you do notice that your plant is starting to show signs of root or crown rot, you will need to take action immediately. Remove the affected leaves and stems and replant the kangaroo paw in fresh, well-draining soil.
Snails and Slugs
They love kangaroo paw plants, so keep an eye out for these pests. You can also try using Sluggo or similar products to help control these critters. If you see any chewed leaves, cut them off and dispose of them.
Once established, Kangaroo paws are relatively drought tolerant, but they will perform best if you water them regularly during the growing season. Be sure to provide them with plenty of compost and mulch to help retain moisture in the soil. They prefer sunny locations but will tolerate some light shade.
Other Facts and Tips
- Kangaroo plants can be useful for erosion control on slopes.
- Kangaroo Paws symbolize strength and are often given as gifts to someone who has recently undergone surgery.
- The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties and can be used to make tea.
- Kangaroo Paw can be propagated from seed, but it is a slow process. It is easier to propagate from divisions or cuttings.
- When planting Kangaroo Paw, choosing a location with well-drained soil is essential.
- The plant does not like to sit in wet conditions and will rot if the roots are constantly wet.
- Kangaroo Paw should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
- It is important to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage new growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Flower
Is the kangaroo paw plant toxic to dogs?
There is some evidence that the kangaroo paw plant may be toxic to dogs, as it contains a compound called aristolochic acid. This compound can cause kidney damage and may even be carcinogenic. However, there have not been any studies specifically on the effects of aristolochic acid on dogs, so it’s hard to say how harmful it would be.
If you are worried about your dog ingesting any part of the kangaroo paw plant, it is best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
Is the kangaroo paw plant the same as kangaroo paw fern?
No, they are not the same. The Kangaroo paw plant is an Australian flowering plant in the genus Anigozanthos. Kangaroo paw fern is a species of tree fern endemic to New Zealand in the family Cyatheaceae.
The Kangaroo paw plant has green, sword-shaped leaves that grow up to 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) long and 2 cm (0.8 in) wide. The flowers are tubular and grow in clusters of different colours, including red, yellow, orange and bronze. They bloom from August to December, depending on the variety.
What’s the lifespan of kangaroo paws?
Kangaroo paws are perennial plants that can potentially live for many years. The exact lifespan of a kangaroo paw plant depends on the species, climate, and other environmental factors. In general, kangaroo paws tend to be relatively tough plants that can withstand a fair amount of abuse. With proper care, they may last for several years.
How big do kangaroo paw plants grow?
Kangaroo paw plants can grow quite large, reaching up to three feet. They have an attractive rosette shape, with their long leaves sprouting in all directions. The flowers are quite showy, with bright colours ranging from red to yellow to orange. They make a great addition to any garden, and they’re also relatively easy to care for.
Do kangaroo paw make good cut flowers?
Yes, kangaroo paws make good-cut flowers. They have a long vase life and are relatively easy to care for. Just be sure to keep the vase’s water level high enough, so the stems are constantly submerged. And if you’re not going to display them right away, it’s best to refrigerate them until you’re ready to use them.
Should I cut the dead flowers off my kangaroo paw?
Cutting off the dead flowers on a kangaroo paw is generally recommended, as this will help promote new growth. You can either cut them off with scissors or use your fingers to snap them off. Just be sure not to damage the stem, as this will prevent the flower from receiving nutrients and water.
Are kangaroo paws low maintenance?
Yes! They are low maintenance plants and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
One of the reasons they make great indoor plants is that they don’t require a lot of water. You can often go for weeks without watering them, and they’ll be fine. They also do well in indirect sunlight, so you don’t have to worry about placing them in a specific spot in your home.
Another great thing about kangaroo paws is that they aren’t susceptible to many pests or diseases, so you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye on them too closely. Overall, they’re a great plant to add to your home if you’re looking for something that’s low maintenance and easy to care for.
How long do kangaroo paw flowers last?
Kangaroo paw flowers usually last around three weeks but can last up to six weeks with the proper care.
Kangaroo paw flowers (Anigozanthos flavidus) are native to Western Australia and grow in various colours, including red, orange, yellow, green, and purple. They are an exciting addition to any garden and make beautiful bouquets.
The flowers usually last around three weeks but can last up to six weeks with the proper care. To lengthen the life of your kangaroo paw flowers, remove the old petals as they start to die off and keep the water fresh.
How big does a kangaroo paw plant get?
Kangaroo paws can get up to 3 feet tall, but most stay around 2 feet. The leaves are opposite, smooth, and green with red or purple veins. The flowers are on a long stalk and come in many colours, including red, orange, yellow, white, and pink.
How often do you water kangaroo paws?
Depending on the weather and the time of year, water kangaroo paws every week to every other week. In the summer, they may need watering more often than that.
Water kangaroo paws by submerging the pot in a basin or sink of water until the soil is wet all the way through. Let the excess water drain off, then return the pot to its place. Do not let plants sit in water; this can cause root rot.
