Have you heard of the Kangaroo Paw flower? This name refers to the curious plant scientifically known as Anigozanthos manglesii, which grows in the west of the Australian continent, and considered as a floral emblem in the country. They respect it so much that, although it is not threatened, it is protected by law, and a special license is required for its collection in the wild.
It is perfectly adapted to living in arid regions, which makes it a ideal candidate to have in gardens with low rainfall.
Kangaroo Paw is a herbaceous plant that grows from a rhizome. It behaves like a perennial, that is, the aerial part is always visible. As one flower fades, another is already budding. This makes its ornamental value never go down, quite the contrary: Who wouldn't like to have these flowers to contemplate day after day? 😉
With a maximum height of 60cm, it grows from sea level to 1600m of altitude, being able to withstand mild frosts and short-lived up to three degrees below zero. During the first year it is recommended to protect it from frost.
In gardening used as a cut flower being able to last a reasonable time, and planted in groups in full sun to create borders of surprising beauty. Another of the qualities of the Kangaroo Paw is its easy cultivation and maintenance. It is an ideal plant also to have in a pot, as long as it has a substrate that facilitates drainage.
It reproduces by seeds, which need heat to germinate. It is because of that sowing is recommended in summer, keeping them for the previous 24 hours in a glass with water at room temperature.
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