Re: Hardy 'pretty' flowers/Kangaroo Paw?

Hi

My indigenous garden is 4 years old and thriving. However, I am being
badgered by the government (my wife) to introduce  'pretty' flowers,  and
some colour (other than blue and grey) into the garden.

Can anyone recommend long-flowering or colourfully foliaged plants for a
garden that is subject to salt-laden, high-speed winds (although there are
barrier plants in place) and a Mediterranean type climate. In this case the
'soil' is hydrophobic sand that proteas and  restoids, for instance, thrive
in.  The plants will be mulched and watered as water restrictions permit.

The plant would thus have to cope with acidic sand, be salt and wind
tolerant and be able to endure long, hot dry spells with intermittent
watering.  Also, it needs to withstand some root disturbance as I co-exist
with some 'creeping' moles (at the cost of the odd protea).

Would the Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos flavidus) be suitable and can one grow
it from seed as I have not come across it in local (Western Cape) nurseries?

Your advice would be appreciated

Regards
Charl

PS Reading the above, it seems that I might have to engage in some genetic
engineering

Charl
The A.flavidus is one I tried commercially here once. Its probably the
hardiest of the lot & , with a bit of shelter, would probably do OK for you.
The flower was rather dull & that was the reason it didn't sell. Very easy
from seed. It would be evergreen & only require the minimum of summer water.
Worth trying.
There are currently a range of smaller hybrid kangaroo paws on the market
here. They were meant to have been bred to eliminate inkspot, but I see they
still get it. They must be treated as deciduous perennials & allowed to dry
off over summer. Definitely rejuvenate the better for it the next winter.
Theres some lovely little ones & were all from meristem culture , I think
labelled 'bush gems'. If I remember correctly you are in Simonstown (?).
Harry Goemans nursery in Kommetjie had some a little while ago, so thats
quite close to you. The buyer there - Ina - is very helpful & might be able
to track something down for you.

Regards

Glenn Breayley. Ragnarok & Valhalla Research.
POBox 26158, Hout Bay, 7872, Capetown, South Africa
Ph/Fax SA 021 7904253 E-mail valhalla@iafrica.com
Wholesale nurseryman & Tillandsia specialist wholesale & retail grower.
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