53/70 D007 Australian Flora--Kangaroo paw

Kangaroo paw is one of the most iconic Australian native plants which originates in Western Australia. With a height around 1 to 2 meters, this soft-wooded perennial is formed by clumps of shiny green, long strap-like foliage. Although its flowers and leaves have no fragrance, it is much loved in Australia and Red and Green Kangaroo Paw was proclaimed as the floral emblem of Western Australia in 1960.

The name Kangaroo paw is derived from the shape of its buds, which resemble the paws of a kangaroo when they are unopened. It blooms after one year of growth. The clusters of clawlike tubular flowers are coated with a furry covering. When the flowers bloom, they add a new contrast to the overall look of the plant. Its fascinating double life as both bud and flower is what makes them so popular among gardeners. Kangaroo paw is unscented and produces dilute nectar, which attacts only birds as its pollinator because generally, birds have a weak sense of smell.

One oddity of Kangaroo paw is that the bloom color varies according to temperature, with cooler days producing more intense shades. One explanation for this phenomenon is that the amount of light intensity relates to the plant's ability of absorbing light. Thus the same species grown in different environments can have different color intensity.