Anigozanthos Orange Cross (Kangaroo Paw)

Anigozanthos ‘Orange Cross’ is a striking Australian native Kangaroo Paw prized for its tall, branching flower stems and vibrant orange blooms. This hardy, clump-forming perennial produces attractive strap-like green foliage and a spectacular display of nectar-rich flowers, predominantly during spring and summer. Its distinctive flowers attract honeyeaters and other native birds, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens, native landscapes and colourful feature plantings.

Well suited to sunny garden positions, ‘Orange Cross’ is particularly effective when planted in groups, creating a bold display of upright orange flowers above its evergreen foliage.

Flowers:

Produces clusters of distinctive, velvety orange to burnt-orange tubular flowers on tall, branching stems. Flowering occurs predominantly during spring and summer, with the potential for an extended display in favourable conditions. The nectar-rich blooms attract honeyeaters and other native birds and are excellent for cut flower arrangements.

Foliage:

Long, upright, strap-like green leaves emerge from the base of the plant, forming attractive clumps. The evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and contrasts beautifully with the colourful flower stems.

Fruit:

Small seed capsules may develop following flowering. These are generally inconspicuous, with the flowers providing the main ornamental appeal.

Form & Size:

Height: 1.5–2 m when flowering

Width: 0.6–1 m

A vigorous, upright, clump-forming perennial with tall, branching flower stems rising above the foliage. The leafy clump remains considerably shorter than the flowering stems.

Growing Conditions:

• Position: Full sun is preferred for strong growth and abundant flowering. Light shade may be tolerated, although flowering may be reduced.

• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Good drainage is essential, particularly during prolonged wet weather.

• Water: Water regularly during establishment and while flower buds are developing. Once established, tolerates short dry periods but benefits from supplementary watering during extended dry conditions.

• Frost: Tolerates light frost once established. Protect young plants from severe or prolonged frost.

• Wind: Suitable for moderately exposed positions, although protection from strong winds will help prevent damage to tall flower stems.

• Climate: Suitable for warm temperate and subtropical gardens, including the Sunshine Coast. In humid climates, excellent drainage, full sun and good air circulation are important.

Uses:

• Australian native gardens

• Bird-attracting and wildlife-friendly landscapes

• Feature planting

• Mass planting for colourful displays

• Mixed garden borders

• Coastal-inspired gardens

• Large decorative pots and containers

• Cut flower gardens

• Low-maintenance landscaping

Maintenance:

Anigozanthos ‘Orange Cross’ benefits from regular maintenance to encourage healthy growth and reliable flowering. Remove spent flower stems close to the base after flowering to promote fresh growth and maintain a tidy appearance.

Remove old, damaged or blackened foliage to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Established clumps can be rejuvenated by cutting back tired foliage after flowering, taking care not to damage emerging shoots.

Apply a slow-release fertiliser suitable for Australian native plants in late winter or early spring. Water during dry periods, particularly when flower buds are developing, and avoid excessive watering or poorly drained conditions.

Notes:

‘Orange Cross’ is a taller-growing Kangaroo Paw valued for its strong, branching flower stems and vibrant orange blooms. It is particularly effective when planted in groups, where its upright flowers create an impressive display.

Like other Kangaroo Paws, it may be affected by ink spot and fungal leaf diseases, particularly in humid conditions. Planting in full sun with good air movement and drainage will help maintain healthy growth.

Its nectar-rich flowers provide a valuable food source for native birds, while the long-lasting flower stems are ideal for floral arrangements.

Companion Plants:

• Lomandra ‘Lime Tuff’

• Dianella ‘Little Rev’

• Grevillea ‘Peaches & Cream’

• Callistemon ‘Little John’

• Westringia ‘Naringa’

• Banksia ‘Birthday Candles’

Common Name: Orange Cross Kangaroo Paw

Botanical Name: Anigozanthos ‘Orange Cross’

Family: Haemodoraceae

Origin: Australia – Western Australian Kangaroo Paw hybrid