Anigozanthos flavidus - Red Kangaroo Paw

Anigozanthos flavidus – Red Kangaroo Paw

Habit and Habitat:
Anigozanthos flavidus, commonly known as the Red Kangaroo Paw, is a striking perennial native to the south-west of Western Australia. Found naturally along riverbanks, swamp margins, and in open forests, it thrives in sandy or gravelly soils and is well adapted to both wet and dry periods. Its vivid red, velvety flower stems rise well above the foliage, making it a standout in the landscape.

Place in Local Habitat and Ecosystem Distribution:
In the wild, A. flavidus is an important nectar source for honeyeaters and native bees. Its tubular flowers are adapted for bird pollination, with their shape and colour attracting a variety of nectar-feeding species. Though naturally occurring in Western Australia, it is widely cultivated across Australia for its resilience and long flowering season.

Planting Companions:
Pairs beautifully with other water-wise natives such as Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush), Westringia fruticosa (Coastal Rosemary), Grevillea rosmarinifolia, and contrasting grasses like Lomandra longifolia. In mixed plantings, its upright flowers add height and drama.

Human and Wildlife Uses:
Highly valued in the cut flower industry, Red Kangaroo Paw blooms last well in arrangements. In gardens, the flowers provide reliable nectar for birds, while the foliage offers shelter for insects.

Care Instructions:
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for the best flowering results. Water regularly during the growing season but avoid waterlogging. Remove old flower stems and cut back foliage to ground level in late summer to promote healthy regrowth. Apply a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in spring. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Size, Height, Width, Flower and Leaf Characteristics:
Forms a clump 1–2 m high when in flower, with a spread of around 60–90 cm. Long, strappy leaves emerge from the base, bright green in colour. Tall flowering stems bear clusters of red, tubular, velvety flowers from late spring through summer, sometimes longer in ideal conditions.

Latin Etymology:
The genus name Anigozanthos comes from the Greek anisos (unequal) and anthos (flower), referring to the irregular shape of the flowers. The species name flavidus means "yellow"—a nod to the more common yellow-green form of the species, though cultivated varieties like the Red Kangaroo Paw offer bold colour variations.

Traditional Uses:
Indigenous Australians traditionally consumed the flower nectar either directly or mixed with water, and the plant held cultural significance in some regions.

Planting Guidelines:
Choose a sunny, open spot with free-draining soil. Plant in clumps for visual impact, spacing around 50–60 cm apart. Avoid heavy clay unless improved with sand or gravel. Protect from frost in cooler climates. Regular pruning and feeding will keep plants vigorous and flowering heavily year after year.