Anigozanthos flavidus aka Evergreen Kangaroo Paw

Anigozanthos flavidus is an evergreen perennial from southwest Western Australia. It belongs to the Haemodoraceae family. Gardeners know it as tall kangaroo paw. It grows in clumps from short, horizontal rhizomes. Its leaves stay green through winter, giving gardens year-round interest. It suits warm gardens but needs frost protection elsewhere.

Garden plants often reach 3–6 feet [0.9–1.83 metres] in flower. Their spread reaches 2–4 feet [0.6–1.22 metres]. The RHS gives a taller limit of 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Slender, arching leaves form a rosette at the base. Each green leaf can reach 3 feet [0.91 metres] long. The leaves have smooth edges and a narrow, strap-like shape. Leafless flower stems rise well above the foliage. These stems branch and may curve, with red or burgundy colouring.

The flowers grow in panicles at the stem tips. Each bloom forms a tube covered in soft hairs. Their shape gives the plant its kangaroo paw name. Most flowers are yellow-green, though pink and red forms occur. The RHS also describes brownish-red blooms. Flowers can reach about 0.16 feet [0.05 metres] long or more. They last well and make useful cut flowers. Outdoors, flowering runs from spring into fall in suitable climates. Plants under glass may flower throughout the year.

Give this plant full sun, though it tolerates light shade. Choose a sheltered site away from strong winds. It favours rich soil that drains well, with sand or loam. North Carolina State Extension also notes some tolerance of clay. Keep the soil evenly moist while the plant flowers. Reduce watering in winter rather than keeping it constantly wet. Sources also note drought tolerance. Missouri Botanical Garden places it in USDA zones 10–11. It cannot withstand frost. The RHS rates it H1C for UK conditions. In colder regions, grow it in a greenhouse or conservatory.

Use tall kangaroo paw in borders, small groups, or containers. It also suits patios and gardens grown for cut flowers. North Carolina State Extension lists resistance to deer and rabbits. The RHS says it needs no pruning. Plants tend to have few pest or disease problems. Still, aphids, powdery mildew, and ink spot disease can occur. Growers can raise plants from seed or divide established clumps. The RHS gives a maturity time of two to five years.