PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers bright direct sunlight in cool climates, with partial shade during hot summer afternoons
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates light frost down to 5°C; optimal growth occurs at 15–25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear, sword-shaped, grey-green foliage up to 60 cm long, forming dense clumps.
- Flower: Tubular, paw-shaped blooms with velvety red perianths and contrasting green inner lobes.
- Stem: Erect, slender green stems that support terminal flower clusters.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted low-phosphorus fertilizer applied once monthly. Use fertilizers with low phosphorus to support bloom production without damaging roots
Banana peel liquid fertilizer：Chop banana peels and soak in water for 3 days; dilute the mixture 1:10 before applying to soil; avoid direct contact with foliagePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season
- Trim back yellowing or damaged leaves in late winter to promote fresh new growth
- Cut back the entire plant to 10 cm above soil level after flowering to refresh the clump
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxic effects to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Official floral emblem of Western Australia; symbolizes resilience and unique outback beauty
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; popular cut flower for floral arrangements
