Anigozanthos ‘Bush Gold’, commonly known as Kangaroo Paw, is a distinctive ornamental plant from Australia. This perennial is known for its vibrant golden-yellow flowers and unique form, making it a striking addition to many gardens. Its hardiness and eye-catching blooms contribute to its widespread appeal.
Distinctive Features of Anigozanthos Bush Gold
Anigozanthos ‘Bush Gold’ features paw-like, golden-yellow flowers on reddish stems, contrasting with its mid-green, sword-like foliage. The plant typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, with flower stalks reaching up to 5 feet.
Its bloom season is extensive, with flowers appearing throughout spring and summer, and often into the fall. This plant attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Once established, ‘Bush Gold’ is drought tolerant and hardy in USDA Zones 9b to 12, tolerating temperatures down to about 25°F and re-sprouting after temperatures as low as 20°F.
Planting Anigozanthos Bush Gold
For optimal growth and flowering, select a site with full sun exposure, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is essential, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions.
Prepare the soil by ensuring it is sandy or gritty. Amend heavier soils with organic matter to improve drainage. A slightly acidic pH is generally preferred. The best time for planting is typically in autumn or early spring. Plant at the same depth as it was in its nursery pot, ensuring the crown is not buried, and water thoroughly after planting.
Caring for Anigozanthos Bush Gold
Watering ‘Bush Gold’ requires careful attention, especially during dry periods. While drought-tolerant once established, regular irrigation during active growth and flowering promotes better performance. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, and avoid overwatering. Watering at the base of the plant can help prevent fungal diseases on the foliage.
For fertilization, a controlled-release fertilizer balanced for native plants is suitable, applied in spring and autumn. Use a low-phosphorus fertilizer, as some Kangaroo Paw varieties are sensitive to high phosphorus levels. ‘Bush Gold’ prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 68°F and 100°F. Prolonged exposure below 41°F can be detrimental.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning helps maintain the health and appearance of Anigozanthos ‘Bush Gold’. Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage new blooms and extend the flowering season. Cut these stalks back as close to the base as possible without damaging new growth.
Remove old or yellowing foliage, as dead leaves can harbor pests and diseases. This can often be done by pulling them off at the base. For older, congested plants, periodic division of the clumps can rejuvenate them. This is best done in spring or early autumn by lifting the plant, dividing the rhizomes, and replanting into fresh soil.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While generally robust, Anigozanthos ‘Bush Gold’ can encounter issues. “Ink spot disease,” a fungal condition, causes black spots on leaves, especially near the base. Prevent this by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and maintaining proper drainage. If ink spot appears, remove affected foliage and apply a fungicide.
Rust, another fungal issue, appears as orange, red, or yellow pimples on foliage and can be treated with fungicides or neem oil. Pests like snails and slugs can also be a concern. Browning leaf tips often indicate water stress, either from insufficient watering or mineral buildup from over-fertilization. Lack of blooms can stem from insufficient sunlight or improper fertilization.