Anigozanthos or Kangaroo Paw - Plant Care and Growing Conditions

The foliage on Kangaroo Paws is attractive all year round, however it is the long lasting colorful flowers that appear in early summer that we grow these amazing plants for. Well known and are used in landscaping applications around the world. Anigozanthos (kangaroo paw, picture right) come in a range of colors and forms including dwarf varieties.

Anigozanthos (kangaroo paw) is one of Australia's best known plants and are a native of Western Australia. Hybrid cultivars such as 'Bush Gem' are a little bit easier to grow and readily available for sale in the eastern states, more disease resistant and generally providing a longer life span.

Fairly easy to grow and care for, kangaroo paws require a well drained soil and a position in full sun, with a good amount of compost or organic matter added. Protect young plants from snails. Divide clumps of kangaroo paws to promote new growth and keep them healthy. In frost prone areas Anigozanthos can be cut back to 8 - 12 cm in late winter to prevent damage.

The main disease problem is rot caused by the plants being to wet, over use of mulch around the base of the plants will cause problems. The appearance of black marks on the foliage is indicative of 'ink disease' infected plants should be removed and disposed of (not composted), fungicides can be used if needed. Slugs and snail can be a problem with young plants, take the usual precautions.

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