The floral emblem of Western Australia, with vivid green flowers rising from a woolly red stem in spring. A spectacular but short-lived paw best in sharply drained, sunny sites.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1 m H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Red and Green Kangaroo Paw
Botanically, Anigozanthos manglesii is a moderate-growing perennial in the Haemodoraceae family, native to Western Australia. It reaches around 1 m tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and cream green flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Red and Green Kangaroo Paw
Red and Green Kangaroo Paw suits Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Red and Green Kangaroo Paw does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Red and Green Kangaroo Paw performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Red and Green Kangaroo Paw after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Once established, it is moderate maintenance.
Using Red and Green Kangaroo Paw in the garden
Red and Green Kangaroo Paw earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden, a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Red and Green Kangaroo Paw with species that also favour low water use and Mediterranean climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Red and Green Kangaroo Paw
Plant Sale lists Red and Green Kangaroo Paw as potted plants and seed. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Red and Green Kangaroo Paw seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
