Kangaroo Paw Care: Your Top Questions Answered

Chances are you’ve spotted kangaroo paws flowering lately — bold colour, sculptural stems, unmistakably Australian — and thought, maybe I need one of those.
Good news: The Nurso has these standout natives in stock, along with a curated range of pots to suit them perfectly.

Whether you’re new to kangaroo paws or already have one at home, our horticultural team has answered the five most common questions we’re asked about caring for them.

1. Are there different varieties of kangaroo paws?

Yes — and choosing the right one matters.

Kangaroo paws come in dwarf and tall varieties.

• Dwarf varieties are often treated as annuals or biennials and are ideal for pots.

• Tall varieties are longer-lived, more robust, and well suited to garden beds or large planters.

Both have their place, depending on your space and lifestyle.

2. What do kangaroo paws need to thrive?

Two things. Always.

Full sun and excellent drainage.

This is why kangaroo paws perform so well in pots — especially dwarf varieties. Pots allow you to control drainage and soil conditions, which is key to keeping plants healthy and long-lasting.

3. How do I keep kangaroo paws looking their best?

The secret is pruning.

As flower stems finish or start to brown, cut them back cleanly at the base. This encourages fresh growth and repeat flowering.

Seasonally:

• After flowering in autumn, cut plants back and divide clumps if needed

• Dividing helps tidy plants, improves airflow and keeps them vigorous

Less clutter, stronger plants, better flowers.

4. My kangaroo paws have black ink spots — what’s going on?

If you’re gardening in Brisbane, this is a common one.

Humidity can cause black “ink” spots on kangaroo paw petals. If you notice this:

• Cut affected growth back to 3–5cm above the crown

• This removes diseased material and helps prevent further issues like crown rot

Good airflow and pruning make a big difference here.

5. Do kangaroo paws attract native birds?

Absolutely — and it’s one of their best features.

Kangaroo paws are loved by honeyeaters, red wattlebirds and eastern spinebills, helping create a small but meaningful wildlife habitat in your garden.

Planting natives isn’t just beautiful — it’s beneficial.

Why We Love Kangaroo Paws

Kangaroo paws are incredibly versatile:

• Plant them in pots or garden beds

• Use them as feature plants

• Enjoy them as long-lasting cut flowers

They’re bold, low-fuss and uniquely Australian — a modern garden essential.