Anigozanthos Rufus 'Frosty Red'

Kangaroo Paw Frosty Red

Botanical Name: Anigozanthos rufus ‘Frosty Red’
Family: Haemodoraceae
Origin: Western Australia (cultivar selection)
Plant Type: Evergreen clump-forming perennial (rhizomatous)

Overview

A hardy kangaroo paw with rich red flower spikes dusted in a silvery “frosted” sheen. Forms neat fans of strappy green leaves and sends up long, branching stems mainly spring–summer, with a possible autumn flush in SA. Excellent for mass planting, borders, containers and cutting; attracts honeyeaters and pollinators.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.5–0.7 m H × 0.5–0.8 m W (foliage); flower stems to 1.0–1.4 m
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Evergreen, strappy mid-green leaves in dense fans
• Flowers: Frosted red kangaroo paw blooms on tall stems, mainly spring–summer
  
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen clump + long spring–summer display (possible autumn rebloom)
• Wildlife Value: Nectar-rich—honeyeaters, bees, butterflies
• Tolerance: Drought- and heat-tolerant once established; wind and second-line coastal tolerant; light frost
• Planting Density: Borders/edging: 3 per metre (≈ 30–40 cm centres); Mass planting: 40–60 cm apart; Containers: 30–40 cm pots (size up as clumps thicken)
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats & dogs (leaf hairs may irritate sensitive skin—wear gloves)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun (best flowering) to light part shade
• Soil: Well-drained sandy/loam; raised/mounded beds on heavier sites
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); minimal in winter
• Maintenance: Cut spent flower stems at the base; remove old/tatty leaves; light feed with low-P native fertiliser in spring; divide clumps every 3–4 years
• Lifespan: 5–10+ years in well-drained sites
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA; sheltered coastal OK
• Soil pH: Neutral (adaptable: slightly acidic–slightly alkaline)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Mass plant for a red seasonal band
• Sunny borders with grasses and greys
• Feature clumps in gravel gardens
• Cut flowers (long-lasting stems) (not a privacy hedge)

Why You Will Love It

Striking frosted red flower spikes, water-wise toughness and a neat, evergreen clump—reliable colour and pollinator appeal for modern SA gardens.