Kangaroo paw

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Kangaroo paws
Image:Anigozanthos manglesii gnangarra 01.jpg Anigozanthos manglesii
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Liliopsida Order: Commelinales Family: Haemodoraceae

Kangaroo paw is a common name for a number of species in the family Haemodoraceae that are endemic to the south-west of Western Australia. These perennial plants are noted for their unique bird attracting flowers. The tubular flowers are coated with dense hairs and open at the apex with six claw-like structures: from this paw formation the common name "Kangaroo Paw" is derived.

From the genus Anigozanthos these include:

• Anigozanthos bicolor Endl. (Little Kangaroo Paw)
• Anigozanthos flavidus DC. (Tall Kangaroo Paw)
  • This species is found in extreme south western corner of Western Australia and is the most robust species. It adapts well to a variety of soil and weather conditions and is used extensively by the horticultural industry to develop hybrids. The flower stems can grow to over 1.5 metres with abundant flowers being green/yellow.
• Anigozanthos gabrielae Domin (Dwarf Kangaroo Paw)
• Anigozanthos manglesii D.Don (Mangles Kangaroo Paw)
• Anigozanthos pulcherrimus Hook. (Yellow Kangaroo Paw)
  Image:Kangaroo paws darling range.JPG

  Kangaroo Paws in bushland on the Darling Scarp.
  • This species flowers in late spring through to early summer with golden yellow flowers on stems to 1.2 metres and is found naturally on the sand plains between Perth and Geraldton.
• Anigozanthos rufus Labill. (Red Kangaroo Paw)
• Anigozanthos viridis Endl. (Green Kangaroo Paw)
  • Anigozanthos viridis subsp. terraspectans Hopper (Dwarf Green Kangaroo Paw)

From the genus Macropidia:

• Macropidia fuliginosa (Hook.) Druce (Black Kangaroo Paw)

[edit] External links

Gardening Australia Kangaroo paws factsheetcy:Pawen Cangarŵ