Kangaroo Paw
Anigozanthos flavidus
Also listed as Anigosia flavida, Anigozanthos coccineus
Also known as Yellow Kangaroo Paw, Tall Kangaroo Paw, Evergreen Kangaroo-paw
Climate Match for your location
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Kangaroo Paw is a striking Western Australian native with distinctive tubular flowers resembling a kangaroo's paw, blooming in warm hues of yellow, orange, red, and burgundy. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it excellent for xeriscape and Mediterranean gardens.
Why grow it
Kangaroo Paw offers reliable color and structure in xeriscape settings where many ornamentals struggle, particularly in warm-season gardens with limited water. Compared to other Australian natives, it combines extended bloom periods with minimal fertilizer needs once established. Its tubular flowers attract nectar feeders and work as reliable filler in mixed perennial borders where drought tolerance is required.
Watch out for
Plants may take 2-3 years to reach full flowering capacity, so initial establishment requires patience. In areas with high humidity or poor drainage, root rot and fungal issues can develop even in drought-tolerant specimens. Deadheading spent flowers encourages repeat blooming but is not essential if informal appearance is acceptable.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Haemodoraceae
Native Range
Southwest Western Australia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
The Bush Gems series offers compact, mildew-resistant selections ideal for smaller gardens, with flowers ranging from yellow through orange, red, and burgundy; other popular cultivars include 'Yellow' and 'Red' for their vibrant single-color blooms.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Kangaroo Paw is a striking Western Australian native with distinctive tubular flowers resembling a kangaroo's paw, blooming in warm hues of yellow, orange, red, and burgundy. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it excellent for xeriscape and Mediterranean gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Kangaroo Paw grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Kangaroo Paw offers reliable color and structure in xeriscape settings where many ornamentals struggle, particularly in warm-season gardens with limited water. Compared to other Australian natives, it combines extended bloom periods with minimal fertilizer needs once established. Its tubular flowers attract nectar feeders and work as reliable filler in mixed perennial borders where drought tolerance is required.
Watch out for
Plants may take 2-3 years to reach full flowering capacity, so initial establishment requires patience. In areas with high humidity or poor drainage, root rot and fungal issues can develop even in drought-tolerant specimens. Deadheading spent flowers encourages repeat blooming but is not essential if informal appearance is acceptable.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Haemodoraceae
Native Range
Southwest Western Australia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar shrubs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
The Bush Gems series offers compact, mildew-resistant selections ideal for smaller gardens, with flowers ranging from yellow through orange, red, and burgundy; other popular cultivars include 'Yellow' and 'Red' for their vibrant single-color blooms.