Top 5 Questions About Kangaroo Paws Answered

The Nurso’s horticultural team answers the top five most commonly asked questions about caring for kangaroo paws.

Chances are you’ve been out and about recently, and have seen beautiful looking kangaroo paws in flower and thought – hmmm – maybe I should put some in my garden? Great news is The Nurso has these gorgeous plants in stock – with a wide range of pots to pop them in.

If you already have one at home but are unsure how to care for it our gardening team have answered the five most commonly asked questions about kangaroo paws below.

1. Are there different varieties of kangaroo paws?

Yes! There are short and tall varieties of kangaroo paws. The dwarf varieties are generally viewed as annuals or biennials, whilst the tall varieties are longer lived and more reliable.

2. What are two things all kangaroo paws need to thrive?

There are two things that ALL Kangaroo Paws need: full sun and very well drained soil. For this reason, they love living in pots, particularly the dwarf varieties. Good thing The Nurso currently has extensive range of select pots on sale (while supplies last!).

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

One word: pruning! To keep them looking their best, try cutting back flower stems at the base as they brown – this will encourage new flowers to form.

Firstly, in Autumn, following flowering, cut back and divide clumps.

Secondly, dividing clumps tidies up a ratty looking plant, and helps thin out your plantings to allow greater air flow.

4. My kangaroo paws are getting black ink spots. How do I stop this?

If you live in Brisbane, there’s a good chance your kangaroo paw is prone to getting black ink spots. This is because humid weather causes the discoloration in the petals.

If you notice any black ink spots cut back to about 3-5cm above the crown. This will get rid of any affected leaves and helps to prevent disease spread and crown rot.

5. Do kangaroo paws attract native birds?

Yes! One of the best part about growing a native plant is creating a microenvironment in your garden. According to Gardening Australia, Kangaroo paws attract honeyeaters, red wattle birds and eastern spinebills.

So pop on down to The Nurso and grab a kangaroo paw plant today!

Kangaroo paws are versatile enough to plant in a pot, in the garden, and look stunning as cut flowers too!

The Nurso’s gardening centre is open seven days a week until 4pm. If you have additional questions our friendly and knowledge horticultural team would love to discuss further. We’ll see you there.

Happy gardening!

The Nurso Gardening Team x

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