perennial

Red Kangaroo Paw

The Story

Plant Bio

Anigozanthos rufus, the red kangaroo paw, is an evergreen, clump-forming perennial native to Western Australia, producing a basal rosette of stiff, sword-like grey-green leaves. In spring and summer, it sends up tall, branching stems topped with tubular, deep red flowers covered in dense, velvety hairs that resemble a paw.

This species is distinguished by its intense scarlet-to-maroon flower coloration and its relative resilience compared to other kangaroo paws, though it demands exceptionally sharp drainage. The unique branching habit of the flower spikes creates a highly architectural silhouette in dry-climate borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural form with its upright, strappy foliage and unique, velvety red flower spikes.

Excellent as a long-lasting cut flower, holding its vibrant red color well in arrangements.

Attracts hummingbirds and local insect pollinators with its abundant, nectar-rich tubular blooms.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

3-5 years

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Skin Irritant

Bloom period

Spring – Late summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in a full sun position in sandy, exceptionally well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Water moderately during the active spring growing season, then reduce irrigation significantly in winter.
Apply a very light application of low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer formulated for native plants in early spring.
Prune spent flowering spikes and damaged foliage hard to the ground after blooming finishes to encourage fresh growth.

Pro Tip

Cut spent flower stems and old, damaged leaves hard to ground level after flowering to prevent ink spot disease, taking care not to nick the emerging new rhizome fans.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure sharp, rapid soil drainage by planting in raised beds or sandy mounds if native soil is heavy.
Provide excellent air circulation around the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal ink spot disease.
Use only low-phosphorus fertilizers, as high phosphorus levels can be toxic to the plant.
Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin irritation from the velvety hairs.

Don't

Do not overwater during the winter dormancy period, which quickly leads to fatal root rot.
Do not plant in heavy clay soils without substantial amendment for drainage.
Do not leave old, dead foliage or spent flower stems on the plant, as this harbors fungal pathogens.
Do not use standard garden fertilizers containing high levels of phosphorus.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural accent in dry-climate bordersMass planting for dramatic seasonal colorContainer specimen for patios and courtyardsCut flower gardens

Companion Plants

Lomandra longifolia Grevillea Westringia fruticosa Salvia clevelandii

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Kangaroo Paw questions

What zones can Red Kangaroo Paw grow in?

Red Kangaroo Paw is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Kangaroo Paw deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Red Kangaroo Paw, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Red Kangaroo Paw bloom?

Red Kangaroo Paw typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red Kangaroo Paw need full sun?

Red Kangaroo Paw does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Red Kangaroo Paw drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Kangaroo Paw handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.