Planting Guide: How to Grow Kangaroo Paws from Seed
Kangaroo Paw planting advice, step-by-step sowing guide, different varieties, and aftercare.
Flower Variety Identification
Common Name: Kangaroo Paw
Scientific Name: Anigozanthos flavidus, Anigozanthos Manglesii
Family: Haemodoraceae
When to plant Kangaroo Paw in your climate
Not sure what your climate is? See our climate charts.
Cool: January, February, March, April, May, October, November, December
Temperate: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Sub-Tropical: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Tropical: January, February, March, April, May,September, October, November, December
Arid: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Step by Step guide to growing Kangaroo Paw
1. Choosing the Right Time to Plant
Kangaroo Paws should be planted in the warmer months when temperatures remain consistently above 15°C. In cooler regions, you can start them indoors and transplant them outside once the weather warms up. If you live in a frost-prone area, wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting outdoors.
When to plant:
- Indoor sowing: Start seeds indoors in late winter or early spring, about 8-10 weeks before the last frost.
- Outdoor sowing: After the last frost, typically in late spring or early summer.
Find out more about your region's climate here
2. Selecting the Ideal Location
Kangaroo Paws need full sunlight and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. These plants are very drought-tolerant, so they can handle dry conditions, but they must have excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Location needs:
- Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight)
- Well-drained or sandy soil
- Good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases
3. Preparing the Soil
Kangaroo Paws prefer sandy, well-draining soils, though they can tolerate poorer soils. If your soil is heavy or clay-based you can add compost or sand to the soil.
Steps for soil preparation:
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 15-20cm using a garden fork.
- Remove any rocks, weeds, or debris from the planting area.
- Mix in sand, compost, or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and drainage.
- The ideal soil pH for Kangaroo Paws is between 5.5 and 6.5.
4. Sowing Kangaroo Paw Seeds
Growing Kangaroo Paws from seed requires a bit of patience, as the seeds can take several weeks to germinate. To improve germination rates, you can lightly scarify the seeds or soak them in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
Indoor sowing method:
- Fill seed trays or pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix but you can get away with any normal potting mix.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them in, as they need some light to germinate.
- Mist the soil lightly with water and cover the trays with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Kangaroo Paws will also germinate in the open if you don’t have access to a greenhouse.
- Place the trays in a warm location 18-24°C.
- Germination can take anywhere from 3-6 weeks, so be patient and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Direct sowing method:
- After the last frost, prepare the planting area and scatter the seeds on the soil surface.
- Press the seeds lightly into the soil, but do not cover them.
- Water gently and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs.
- Thin seedlings to 20-40cm apart once they are 8-12cm tall.
5. Watering and Care During Germination
Kangaroo Paws are drought-tolerant once established, but they require consistent moisture during germination and early growth stages. Be careful not to overwater, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Watering tips:
- Water lightly and consistently during germination, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Once established, reduce watering to once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Avoid watering the foliage, as wet leaves can promote fungal diseases.
6. Fertilising Kangaroo Paws
Kangaroo Paws are light feeders, but applying a slow-release fertiliser or organic compost can help boost growth and flowering.
Fertiliser tips:
- Use a slow-release, low-phosphorus fertiliser, as Kangaroo Paws are sensitive to high levels of phosphorus.
- Apply fertiliser once in spring when new growth begins, and again during the flowering season.
- Avoid over-fertilising, as too much nitrogen can result in lush foliage but fewer flowers.
Three Growing Tips
1. Deadhead Regularly to Extend Blooming:
Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the season. This will also help maintain a tidy appearance and prevent energy from being directed into seed production.
2. Provide Good Air Circulation to Prevent Fungal Diseases:
Kangaroo Paws can be prone to fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions. Ensure the plants have good air circulation by spacing them properly and avoiding overcrowded areas.
3. Mulch to Retain Moisture and Suppress Weeds:
Mulching around the base of the plant helps to retain moisture in the soil, keep the roots cool, and suppress weed growth. Use organic mulch like bark chips or straw, but keep the mulch away from the base of the plant to avoid fungal issues.
Different Kinds of Kangaroo Paw
Kangaroo Paws come in a variety of colours and sizes, offering a range of options for gardeners. Here are five notable varieties to consider:
Anigozanthos ‘Bush Pearl’:
A compact variety with bright pink flowers, ‘Bush Pearl’ is perfect for container gardening or smaller spaces. It grows to about 40-70cm in height and is known for its long-lasting blooms.
Anigozanthos ‘Bush Gold’:
This variety features golden-yellow flowers and grows to about 0.5-1m tall. ‘Bush Gold’ is ideal for adding a splash of sunshine to garden beds and borders.
Anigozanthos ‘Big Red’:
As the name suggests, ‘Big Red’ produces large, deep red blooms on tall stems that can reach up to 1-1.2m in height. It’s a striking choice for focal points or cut flower arrangements.
Anigozanthos ‘Bush Ranger’:
This dwarf variety grows to only about 30-45cm tall and features reddish-orange flowers. It’s perfect for containers, rock gardens, or small garden spaces.
Anigozanthos flavidus:
A species known for its tall, hardy growth and greenish-yellow flowers, Anigozanthos flavidus is a popular choice for landscaping due to its resilience and adaptability to various conditions.
Common Diseases and Pests
While Kangaroo Paws are generally hardy, they can still be affected by a few common pests and diseases. Keeping an eye on these issues will help ensure your plants stay healthy and vibrant.
Ink Disease:
Ink disease is a fungal infection that causes blackened, rotting stems and leaves. It is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent ink disease, ensure that your soil is well-drained, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected leaves immediately.
Rust:
Rust is a fungal disease that appears as orange or yellow spots on the undersides of the leaves. To prevent rust, water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage and provide good air circulation around the plants.
Root Rot:
Caused by poor drainage or overwatering, root rot can be fatal to Kangaroo Paws. Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid letting the plants sit in waterlogged soil.
Aphids:
Aphids can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and deformed flowers. Control aphids by spraying the plants with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
Slugs and Snails:
These pests can chew holes in the leaves, especially in young plants. Use organic slug baits or create physical barriers, such as copper tape, around the plants to deter them.
Aftercare For Kangaroo Paws
Kangaroo Paws are relatively low-maintenance plants, but a few simple aftercare steps will ensure that they continue to thrive and produce beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
Watering:
Once established, Kangaroo Paws are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Pruning:
Deadhead old flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. In late winter or early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 10-20cm above the ground to promote fresh, new growth.
Fertilising:
Apply a low-phosphorus fertiliser once in the spring and again during the flowering season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Mulching:
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool. Avoid placing mulch directly against the stems to prevent rot.
Pest and Disease Control:
Regularly inspect your Kangaroo Paws for signs of pests or diseases, and take action early to prevent problems from spreading. Keep the garden area clean and free of debris to reduce the risk of pests.