How to grow red and green kangaroo paw
Overview
Red and green kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos manglesii) is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial grown for its distinctive red and green flower clusters. It thrives in full sun with excellent drainage and is best suited to dry, warm climates.
Varieties
- Anigozanthos manglesii — The wild type with red and green flowers, common in WA.
- Anigozanthos 'Bush Gem' — A compact, free-flowering hybrid with red and green tones.
Soil Preparation
Prefers sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Add coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage. Avoid heavy clay or water-retentive soils.
Growing Guide
Plant in full sun with free-draining soil, ideally sandy or gravelly. Space clumps 30–40 cm apart. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites; raised beds or mounds improve drainage. In cooler zones, wait until after the last frost to plant. Water sparingly once established.
Sowing
Sow seed in autumn or spring after soaking in warm water for 2 hours. Surface-sow on seed-raising mix, keep moist and warm. Germination takes 3–6 weeks. Direct sow or transplant.
Care
Feed with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring and after flowering. Cut spent flower stems to the base to encourage rebloom. Divide clumps every 2–3 years in autumn to maintain vigour.
Companion Planting
Good with other drought-tolerant natives like Grevillea, Eucalyptus, and Banksia. Avoid planting near moisture-loving plants or in humid, shaded spots that encourage ink spot.
Common Pests & Risks
Ink spot (fungal disease) causes black lesions on leaves; improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Snails and slugs can damage young shoots; use organic pellets or hand-pick at night.
Harvesting
Harvest flower stems when the first few flowers open, cutting at the base. Stems last 7–10 days in a vase. For dried flowers, hang upside down in a dark, airy place.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage. Brown leaf tips: low humidity or salt buildup. Ink spot: fungal disease from wet foliage. Stunted growth: phosphorus toxicity from standard fertilisers. Few flowers: too much shade or overwatering.