About Anigozanthos rufus Labill.
Anigozanthos rufus Labill., commonly called red kangaroo paw, is a grass-like plant that reaches heights between 0.2 and 1 meter (7.9 inches to 3 feet 3.4 inches). It has flat, strappy green and grey leaves that are 17 to 28 centimeters (6.7 to 11.0 inches) long. It produces flowers in spring and early summer, from August to January. The long tubular flowers range in color from red to purple to yellow, have a velvety texture, and grow in dense heads at the end of stems. This species is commonly found along the south coast of Western Australia, growing in seasonally wet sandy areas, stretching from around Albany in the west to around Cape Arid in the east. It is commercially available as potted plants or seeds, and is well-suited for small gardens, as a border plant, or grown as a potted plant. In cooler regions, potted plants must be moved indoors over winter. Once established, red kangaroo paw is drought tolerant, moderately frost tolerant, and can grow in full sun or partial shade. To prevent Ink disease, which blackens leaf blades, the plant requires plenty of open space around its base to maintain good air flow. Clumps of this plant can be divided for propagation during summer.
