Kangaroo Paw Anigozanthos 'Bush Pearl' (PBR) (Bush Gems Series)
ABOUT
The Anigozanthos 'Bush Pearl', often known as the pink kangaroo paw, is a strikingly beautiful plant prized mainly for its distinctive flowers. Resembling the paws of a kangaroo, the blooms are tubular in shape and exhibit a captivating pink hue, which can range from a soft, pastel pink to a more vibrant, deep pink. The petals have a velvety texture and are covered in fine hairs, giving them a fuzzy appearance. These hairs can catch the light, which sometimes makes the flowers glisten or shimmer in the sunlight. The pink kangaroo paw blooms stand atop long, sturdy stems, which are also covered in tiny hairs. These hairs are typically a lighter color, often a silvery-green or grayish hue, adding contrast to the vibrant flowers. The stems emerge from a basal rosette of strappy, green leaves. The foliage has a sword-like shape and is oftentimes slightly curved, gracefully arching away from the central cluster. The overall appearance of the pink kangaroo paw is one of unique beauty and texture, and its flowers can add a splash of color to gardens or floral arrangements, attracting birds and other pollinators to its nectar-rich blooms. The plant's distinct look makes it a sought-after choice for landscaping where it can be used as an ornamental focal point, especially in gardens looking to create a natural, wildflower meadow aesthetic.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Haemodoraceae.
Synonyms
Bush Pearl Kangaroo Paw, Pink Kangaroo Paw, Bush Pearl.
Common names
Anigozanthos 'Bush Pearl'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Kangaroo Paw is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not lead to poisoning or adverse health effects. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is generally advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants.
To pets
Kangaroo Paw is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is not typically associated with any symptoms of poisoning in animals such as dogs or cats, and ingestion should not cause any serious health issues. Nevertheless, pet owners should supervise their pets to prevent them from eating plants, as individual animals may have different sensitivities or reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Anigozanthos 'Bush Pearl' is known for its hardy nature and easy cultivation, making it an ideal plant for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Drought Resistance: The plant has good drought tolerance, requiring minimal watering once established, which is beneficial in water-scarce regions or for water-wise gardens.
- Long Flowering Period: Bush Pearl Kangaroo Paw offers a long flowering period with vibrant pink blooms that can last from spring through to late summer.
- Attractive to Wildlife: Its tubular flowers are appealing to nectar-feeding birds, such as hummingbirds and honeyeaters, which helps support local biodiversity.
- Unique Floral Display: The striking flower form and color add a unique aesthetic appeal to garden landscapes, container gardens, and cut flower arrangements.
- Compact Size: The compact growth habit makes it suitable for small gardens or spaces, as well as for pot culture on patios or balconies.
- Low Maintenance: This cultivar requires minimal upkeep besides occasional deadheading and division, making it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners.
- Disease and Pest Resistance: Anigozanthos 'Bush Pearl' generally exhibits good resistance to common pests and diseases, ensuring healthier growth with fewer chemical inputs.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cut Flower Arrangements: Kangaroo Paw is popular in floral designs for its unique shape and vibrant colors, adding an exotic touch to bouquets.
- Textile Design Inspiration: The distinctive flowers of the Kangaroo Paw can be used as inspiration for patterns in textiles, such as prints for fabrics and clothing.
- Botanical Art: The striking appearance of the Kangaroo Paw makes it an excellent subject for botanical illustrations and watercolor paintings.
- Photography: Due to its unique look, the Kangaroo Paw can be used as an interesting and attractive subject in macro and nature photography.
- Educational Tool: The Kangaroo Paw can be used in school projects or educational programs to teach about plant pollination mechanisms, as it has a unique association with bird pollinators.
- Thematic Gardens: Kangaroo Paw can be utilized as a thematic plant in Australian or wildlife-friendly gardens to create a down-under ambiance.
- Erosion Control: This plant's dense clumping habit can be useful for soil stabilization and erosion control in landscape design.
- Event Theming: The flowers of the Kangaroo Paw can be used for their striking visual appeal in event decor, particularly for Australian-themed occasions.
- Cultural Significance: It can be included in gardens or designs that aim to reflect Australian Aboriginal heritage and appreciation for native flora.
- Culinary Garnish: While not widely known for its edibility, the flowers could potentially be used as a garnish for their aesthetic value, provided they are free of pesticides and verified to be safe for consumption.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Kangaroo Paw is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Kangaroo Paw is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vitality: The vibrant and energetic colors of Kangaroo Paw 'Bush Pearl', often in shades of pink, reflect a sense of liveliness and enthusiasm, symbolizing an invigorating energy and zest for life.
- Uniqueness: With its distinct flower shape resembling kangaroo paws, this plant represents uniqueness and individuality, encouraging one to embrace their personal distinctiveness.
- Irritability: The tiny hairs on the flowers and stems that can cause skin irritation if handled improperly symbolize the delicate balance of relationships and the importance of handling interactions with care.
- Perseverance: Originating from the harsh environments of Australia, Kangaroo Paw 'Bush Pearl' suggests resilience and tenacity, thriving in conditions where less hardy plants may fail.
WaterKangaroo Paw needs to be watered regularly during the active growing season, typically spring and summer, with a deep watering once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the root zone, which could approximate around 1 gallon of water for plants in the ground, depending on soil type and climate. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter to every two to three weeks, or as necessary, according to the plant's needs and weather conditions. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent leaf and flower diseases; it's best to apply water directly at the base of the plant.
LightKangaroo Paw thrives best in full sun, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It's particularly important to provide bright light for this plant to promote vigorous growth and vibrant flower production. The ideal spot for Kangaroo Paw would be a south-facing location if you're in the Northern Hemisphere, ensuring it receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureKangaroo Paw prefers a temperate climate and does best in temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can withstand occasional dips down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be detrimental. They are not frost-tolerant, and the ideal growing conditions are in areas where temperatures remain within their preferred range year-round.
PruningKangaroo Paw benefits from pruning to remove spent flower stems and dead foliage, which promotes air circulation and new growth. Trim back after flowering has completed, usually by late summer or early fall. Pruning can be done every year, and for larger plants, a more significant cutback every few years can rejuvenate the plant. The best time is after the last frost has passed to avoid any frost damage to new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKangaroo Paw Bush Pearl thrives in a well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 5.5 to 7.0. A good mix would be equal parts sand, soil, and peat or compost to provide nutrients and improve drainage.
RepottingKangaroo Paw Bush Pearl should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger, as too much space can affect flowering.
Humidity & MistingKangaroo Paw Bush Pearl prefers moderate humidity levels but is tolerant of drier air, making it suitable for typical indoor conditions. Avoid excessive humidity to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycle'Bush Pearl' Kangaroo Paw, a perennial plant, begins its life cycle as a seed that, once sown and given the appropriate conditions of warmth and moisture, germinates within weeks. Upon sprouting, the seedling develops a tight clump of strap-like leaves and, over time, establishes a robust root system. In its vegetative stage, the plant focuses on leaf growth, gaining the strength required for the demands of flowering. Flowering typically occurs in the spring and summer, when vibrant, fuzzy flowers emerge on long stems, attracting pollinators such as birds and bees. After the blooming period, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle, although 'Bush Pearl' is also propagated via division or tissue culture to preserve its unique characteristics. As the plant matures, it may enter a period of dormancy during unfavorable conditions like extreme heat or cold, but will resume growth with the return of favorable seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Kangaroo Paw 'Bush Pearl' is through division, which is ideally done in late winter or early spring just before the onset of the growing season. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the parent plant, ensuring you get a sizable cluster of roots. Gently tease apart the plant clumps into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system intact. Once you have your divisions, replant them at the same depth they were originally growing, allowing for about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) between plants to accommodate future growth. Water the new divisions well and keep the soil moist until you see new growth indicating that the plant has established.