Kangaroo’s Paw: Add Color and Fun to Your Garden

Even if you did not know what a Kangaroo’s Paw (Anigozanthus) looks like, when you see one, you will know instantly that must be it.  Those paws are hard to miss! Kangaroo’s Paw not only has a fun name, but also fun colors – red, golden, green, yellow.  Tall (up to 20 feet), unusual flower structure, nice form with branches, and yes, those bright, pretty colors – all these make it a favorite for gardeners everywhere in the world. A Drought Tolerant Plant Even better, Kangaroo’s Paw can thrive with very little water.  Native to South-Western Australia, it is well adapted to the dry desert climate. Once established, it needs very little watering, making it a great plant for any water efficient garden.  It qualifies for Santa Clara Water District Landscape Rebate Program. There are many ways a Kangaroo’s Paw can be planted in a garden.  It can stand on its own as a center piece, or in a group with other colors of Kangaroo’s Paw.  It can also be planted with other plants, such as green or yellow grasses, to make a good contrast and a nice looking corner or stripe. A Focal Point of a Garden A tall, bright colored Kangaroo’s Paw can make a strong statement and become one of the focal points of a garden.  The red paw easily captures one’s attention when one looks at the gardens below. A Group of Kangaroo’s Paws In Different Colors With all the different colors that they boast of, Kangaroo’s Paws can make a big impression when they are planted together.  Here, the red and green ones complement each other and make a welcoming entry to the open area behind. Kangaroo’s Paw With Other Plants Since they are usually tall with bright-colored flowers, Kangaroo’s Paw can go well with plants of full foliage and blossom of another color. Above, you can see they look nice with green foliage and purple blossom. Below is another one with sedge grass.   Net, Kangaroo’s Paw is a drought tolerant plant with unique, bright colored flowers.  It can be a great choice for a beautiful water efficient garden.