Kangaroo Paw

Anigozanthos flavidus is an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial with fans of narrow, strap-shaped leaves and tall, leafless stems bearing fuzzy tubular flowers. The species usually has yellow-green flowers, though cultivated color forms occur, and its upright flower stalks rise above surrounding plants. ## Landscape use Use it as a vertical accent in a sunny border, small group, or cutting garden, or grow it in a container where winter cold limits outdoor planting. The flowers are suitable for cutting and are pollinated by birds. ## Growing conditions Give it full sun or dappled shade and sharply drained soil. North Carolina State Extension describes sandy to rocky loam as preferred and notes that the species can adapt to clay; heavy frost can damage it. Its long flowering stems may reach 3–6 feet, while the species account at the Australian National Botanic Gardens reports flower stalks up to 2 m. Outdoor bloom is usually from spring through fall; greenhouse plants may bloom continuously. ## Maintenance Avoid overwatering during winter dormancy. Remove declining or frost-damaged foliage, and divide established clumps when needed to renew vigor. Watch for aphids, powdery mildew, ink spot, snails, and slugs. See [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/anigozanthos-flavidus/common-name/tall-kangaroo-paw/) and the [Australian National Botanic Gardens kangaroo paw guide](https://anbg.gov.au/anigozanthos/index.html) for species and genus-level guidance.