Flower of the Month – June 2021

Kangaroo Paw

Family:  Haemodoraceae Genus: Anigozanthos

Origin: Australia

Availability:  Autumn, Winter, Spring

Colours: Black, Green, Red, Yellow, Orange

What’s in a name:  The common name for Kangaroo paw was unremarkably derived from it’s uncanny resemblance to the animals paw, whilst the botanical name of Anigozanthos comes from the Greek “anies” meaning uneven and “Anthos” meaning flower. This would seemingly refer to the uneven stems which hold the flowers at all angles.

Why we love it: Kangaroo Paw is a stunning Australian native, endemic to Western Australia. The vibrant array of colours it can be found in give the sculptural stems even more interest. We love all things sculptural and this is one of our Australian landscape’s most wonderful designs. Kangaroo Paw in the garden is a fantastic source of food for native birds but if they’ll spare you a stem or two the flowers can bring an earthy yet modern point of interest to your home.

How to get the most out of them: Kangaroo Paw are wonderful on their own or mixed into a bouquet:

1. Purchase when partially open.
2. Remove any leaves with black marks (this is common with Kangaroo Paw).
3. Clear leaves from the lower half of the stem.
4. Recut stems with sharp secateurs and immediately place in water.
5. Use preservative and replenish with fresh water every day.
6. Keep away from sunlight and draughts, hot or cold.