Species

perennial

Lilac Kangaroo Paw

The Story

Plant Bio

Anigozanthos flavidus is a robust, evergreen perennial native to southwestern Australia, characterized by its dense clumps of sword-like, strap-shaped leaves. The species produces tall, multi-branched flowering stems covered in fine, velvety hairs that bear curved, tubular flowers resembling animal paws.

'Landscape Lilac' is a vigorous cultivar selected for its soft lavender-pink flowers held on contrasting red-toned stems. This selection exhibits significantly higher tolerance to summer humidity and heavier soils than other members of the genus.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces striking, velvety lavender-pink flower wands that rise high above structural, sword-like evergreen foliage.

Offers excellent wind and salt tolerance in coastal landscapes, and serves as a long-lasting cut flower.

Provides a rich nectar source for hummingbirds, native bees, and other insect pollinators.

SpeciesAnigozanthos flavidusTall Kangaroo Paw

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

70"

Width

36"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Skin Irritant (hairs)

Bloom period

Late spring – Summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with well-draining soil to maximize flower production and prevent root rot.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant so the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish the rhizomatous root system.
Apply a balanced, low-phosphorus slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support the upcoming bloom cycle.

Pro Tip

Cut the entire plant down to two inches above ground level once the flowering cycle finishes; this hard pruning triggers the underground rhizome to send up a clean flush of disease-free foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune the entire plant hard to the ground after flowering to rejuvenate the foliage.
Water regularly during active summer growth to minimize stress-induced leaf spotting.
Ensure excellent air circulation around the foliage fans to prevent powdery mildew.

Don't

Do not irrigate with overhead sprinklers, as wet foliage encourages fungal ink spot disease.
Do not apply heavy doses of high-phosphorus fertilizers, which can damage the root system.
Do not leave spent flower stems on the plant, as they drain energy from the rhizome.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Accent plant in coastal gardensMass planting for dramatic structural effectContainer specimen for patios and courtyardsCut flower gardens

Companion Plants

Phormium tenax Salvia clevelandii Lomandra longifolia Westringia fruticosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lilac Kangaroo Paw questions

What zones can Lilac Kangaroo Paw grow in?

Lilac 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 Lilac Kangaroo Paw deer resistant?

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

When does Lilac Kangaroo Paw bloom?

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

Does Lilac Kangaroo Paw need full sun?

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

Is Lilac Kangaroo Paw drought tolerant?

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