KANGAROO PAW

Did you know there is a plant called The Kangaroo paw?Yes, this large Australian perennial is one of the first plants to recolonize after bush fires. Named for the unique shape of its flower, the kangaroo paw is quickly growing in popularity in gardens all around the world. These plants are so popular that they are the official floral emblem of Western Australia, where they have grown for millions of years.This Australian native, the Kangaroo Paw won’t add any edible value to your garden, but it will bring a host of colorful blossoms! The Kangaroo Paw is a unique plant and flower that a lot of people like. 

 DESCRIPTION

The flowers on kangaroo paw plants come in many different colors; yellow, orange, and white are the most common, but they are also white and pink. The flowers, which bloom mostly in the spring and summer, are covered with a very thick, soft fuzz, making them look almost like velvet. There are basically a few different species that are split across a few genera of this plant. This plant is actually tied to western Australia, The red and green kangaroo paw’s adaptations are tiny woolly hairs on its flowers. The little hairs help by making it taste weird to predators. 

 PLANT, GROW, AND CARE

You can start your kangaroo paws from seed. Pres oak your seeds in hot tap water to soften the seed coat and increase the chances of germination. Keep them moist, and don’t give up on germination until at least six weeks have passed. For transplants, choose a sunny site with well draining water.

Kangaroo paw plants grow between 2 and 10 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide. This is not the easiest flower to grow.Your kangaroo paws need to be in full sun and they need good drainage. You should fertilizing them so that you can maximize their growth. Pruning

When your Kangaroo Paw has finished flowering (mid to late summer or early autumn) it is a very good idea to give it a solid prune. The main tip for the post-flower pruning is to cut any growth with any ‘brownness’ right out. Not just the tip off, take the whole thing,right down to the base.

Toxicity

Overeating any plant can cause digestive problems, and pets could have allergic reactions. Kangaroo paw fern has NO known toxicity for cats or dogs. If either cats or dogs chew on the fronds, they will probably throw up the plant parts, just as they would after eating grass.

Photo Credit ;pixabay.com

Source ;The Illustraded Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies BY C. NORMAN SHEALY