How to Grow a Kangaroo Paw Plant

Kangaroo paw is a native Australian plant in the genus Anigozanthos. The plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zone 11, but may be grown as an annual or houseplant in other regions. The flowers are green and furry and may extend nearly 4 inches from the brightly colored ovary at the base. The fuzzy flowers help the plant hold onto dew and moisture, boosting its tolerance of heat and humidity. Kangaroo paw may be grown from seed or rhizome. Rhizome cuttings are the easiest method and should be taken in spring. Sow kangaroo paw seeds six to eight weeks before planting outside.

Kangaroo paw seeds
2-inch pots
Seed-starter mix
Shovel
Sand
Mulch
Sharp knife

Instructions

- 1
  Fill 2-inch pots with a good seed-starter mixture and sow on the surface of the soil. Lightly scratch the seed into the starter mix. Water until evenly moist and place in a warm location of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2
  Keep the seeds moist until germination. After germination, thin to just two or three sturdy seedlings and gradually move the plants to brighter light until they are in full sun. Water seedlings just enough to keep the soil damp but not soggy.
- 3
  Prepare a bed in a full-sun location in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Dig in 3 inches of sand to a depth of 12 inches if the soil does not drain well. Plant the seedlings at the depth they were growing in the pots. Space them 12 inches apart.
- 4
  Provide moderate moisture to keep the plants wet to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Mulch around the plants with an organic mulch to conserve moisture and prevent competitive weeds.
- 5
  Divide the plants the following spring to make more for pots or other areas. Use a shovel or sharp knife to cut apart sections of the rhizomes that have at least one healthy bud. Replant the sections in pots or other sunny areas of the garden.

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