Gardeners can create balanced displays by selecting plants that complement kangaroo paws well through colour, texture, flowering season, and compatible water needs. Thoughtful combinations also support a cohesive garden design.

Kangaroo paws generally thrive in sunny positions with free-draining soil and good airflow. Their upright flowers pair well with grasses, low shrubs, groundcovers, and drought-tolerant flowering plants in Australian-inspired landscapes.

Successful combinations consider mature size, root competition, irrigation, and local climate. Plants needing constant moisture or creating dense shade may be unsuitable companions in many Australian gardens.

In this guide, we compare 30 suitable companions by appearance, growing requirements, and landscape uses. These plants that complement kangaroo paws well can create a colourful garden with year-round structure and seasonal interest.

What Plants Complement Kangaroo Paws Well? 30 Best

1. Little John Bottlebrush – Best Flowering Shrub for Kangaroo Paws

Little John Bottlebrush is an attractive companion for kangaroo paws because its compact growth and red brush-like flowers create a strong contrast with upright kangaroo paw flower stems. Both plants can suit sunny Australian gardens with well-drained soil and relatively low water requirements once established. Its rounded shrub form also provides a useful middle layer between taller flowering plants and low groundcovers.

Plant Little John Bottlebrush in a sunny position where its mature width will not crowd neighbouring kangaroo paws. Water regularly during establishment, then adjust irrigation according to rainfall, soil drainage, and the needs of the selected kangaroo paw variety. Light pruning after flowering can help maintain a compact shape and encourage fresh growth.

The combination works particularly well in native garden borders, gravel gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes. Red bottlebrush flowers provide a different flowering form from the distinctive paw-shaped blooms, helping create visual variety. Avoid planting the shrub too closely because restricted airflow and competition can affect both plants.

2. Grevillea – Best Australian Native Flowering Companion

Grevilleas complement kangaroo paws through their unusual flowers, evergreen foliage, and wide range of growth habits. Depending on the species or cultivar, they can provide a low groundcover, medium shrub, or taller background plant. Their flowers also attract nectar-feeding birds, adding wildlife value to a native garden.

Choose a grevillea variety that matches the mature height and spread of the kangaroo paws. Most garden grevilleas prefer full sun and well-drained soil, although individual species differ in their tolerance of frost, drought, and soil conditions. Avoid high-phosphorus fertilisers because many Australian native plants are sensitive to excessive phosphorus.

Grevilleas can extend the flowering interest of a garden while creating a layered planting arrangement. Their fine foliage contrasts with the broader leaves of many kangaroo paw varieties, making the combination visually interesting even when flowers are absent. Select compatible varieties rather than assuming every grevillea has identical growing requirements.

3. Westringia – Best Compact Shrub for Kangaroo Paws

Westringia, commonly known as coastal rosemary, is a useful companion for kangaroo paws because its dense grey-green foliage provides an attractive contrast against their upright leaves and colourful flowers. Its naturally rounded growth habit creates structure without competing visually with the flower spikes. Many cultivars are suitable for coastal and relatively dry Australian gardens.

Plant westringia in a sunny position with well-drained soil and enough space for its mature spread. Water consistently while establishing the shrub, then reduce irrigation according to the local climate and soil conditions. Light trimming can maintain a compact shape and prevent the shrub from becoming overly dense.

Westringia works particularly well along pathways, garden borders, and around the edges of native planting beds. Its small flowers can provide additional seasonal interest without overwhelming the kangaroo paws. Select a compact cultivar when planting near smaller varieties of kangaroo paws to avoid excessive competition.

4. Eremophila – Best Drought-Tolerant Native Companion

Eremophila is a strong companion choice for kangaroo paws because many species tolerate dry conditions and produce colourful tubular flowers. Their foliage ranges from narrow green leaves to silvery or grey forms, creating attractive contrast with kangaroo paw foliage. Depending on the variety, eremophilas can also provide nectar for birds and other garden visitors.

Choose an eremophila species suited to the local rainfall, soil, and temperature conditions. Most garden varieties perform best in sunny positions with excellent drainage, particularly in areas that experience wet winters. Avoid excessive irrigation around established plants because persistently wet soil can encourage root problems.

The combination is especially suitable for water-wise native borders and informal Australian gardens. Eremophila flowers introduce different shapes and colours, while its shrub structure provides a backdrop for the upright kangaroo paw stems. Check the mature size because some species spread substantially more than compact garden cultivars.

5. Lomandra – Best Ornamental Grass-Like Companion

Lomandra is one of the most practical companions for kangaroo paws because its arching, strap-like foliage creates a soft contrast with their upright flower stems. Many varieties are hardy, adaptable, and suitable for low-maintenance Australian landscapes. Their clumping growth habit also helps create a structured planting arrangement.

Plant lomandra in a sunny or lightly shaded position with soil drainage appropriate for the selected cultivar. Water regularly during establishment, then allow the plant to adapt to local rainfall conditions. Space clumps according to their expected mature width so that they do not crowd smaller kangaroo paw varieties.

Lomandra is particularly useful along pathways, driveways, and the front or middle sections of native garden beds. Its foliage remains attractive when kangaroo paws are not flowering, helping maintain year-round structure. Select compact cultivars for smaller gardens and larger varieties where a substantial foliage mass is required.

6. Dianella – Best Blue-Green Foliage Companion

Dianella, commonly called flax lily, complements kangaroo paws through its strappy foliage, small flowers, and decorative blue or purple berries in suitable species. Its foliage creates a softer visual layer around the upright stems of kangaroo paws. Different cultivars offer green, blue-green, or variegated leaves for varied garden designs.

Grow dianella in a sunny to partly shaded position, choosing a variety that matches the light and drainage conditions of the planting area. Water during establishment and maintain adequate moisture during prolonged dry periods, especially in warmer climates. Avoid allowing dense clumps to grow directly over the crowns of smaller kangaroo paws.

Dianella is useful for creating layered native garden beds and filling spaces between larger shrubs. Its foliage remains decorative beyond the main flowering period, while berries can provide additional seasonal interest. Check the mature spread because some species and cultivars form broad clumps that need occasional division or thinning.

7. Blue Fescue – Best Blue Ornamental Grass

Blue fescue is an attractive companion for kangaroo paws because its compact, blue-grey foliage creates a strong colour contrast with green leaves and bright flower spikes. Its rounded clumps can soften the edges of planting beds without taking attention away from taller flowering plants. It is particularly useful in gardens with excellent drainage and moderate temperatures.

Plant blue fescue in full sun and sharply drained soil to maintain compact growth and attractive foliage colour. Avoid excessive irrigation and heavy, poorly drained soil because these conditions can shorten the life of the clumps. Divide or replace ageing plants when the centres become untidy or begin to die back.

Blue fescue works well as a foreground planting around kangaroo paws, particularly in gravel gardens and contemporary landscape designs. Its cool-toned foliage contrasts with red, orange, and yellow flowers. In hot and humid climates, select a more heat-tolerant ornamental grass if blue fescue struggles to remain healthy.

8. Kangaroo Grass – Best Australian Native Grass Companion

Kangaroo grass is a natural companion for kangaroo paws because both plants are associated with Australian landscapes and can suit sunny, well-drained garden positions. Its fine foliage and seasonal flower heads introduce movement and a more naturalistic appearance. It is particularly useful in native meadow-style gardens.

Grow kangaroo grass in an open position with enough sunlight for healthy clump development. Establishment watering may be necessary, but established plants can tolerate relatively dry conditions depending on the local climate and soil. Allow sufficient space between clumps so that air can circulate around neighbouring kangaroo paws.

The combination works well in informal native borders, naturalistic planting schemes, and larger garden beds. Kangaroo grass provides a softer background that helps the colourful kangaroo paw flowers stand out. Manage old foliage and seed heads according to the desired appearance and local fire-management requirements.

9. Poa Labillardierei – Best Native Tussock Grass

Poa labillardierei, commonly known as tussock grass, complements kangaroo paws through its dense clumping habit and fine foliage. Its rounded form provides a useful contrast with the upright flower stems of kangaroo paws. The combination is suitable for naturalistic Australian gardens where different heights and textures are important.

Plant tussock grass in a position with suitable sunlight and well-drained soil. Water during establishment and monitor moisture during extended dry weather, as growing conditions influence its appearance and vigour. Keep sufficient space between the grass clumps and kangaroo paws to prevent excessive competition.

Poa labillardierei works well in larger garden borders, native meadow designs, and informal landscape plantings. Its foliage provides structure even when the kangaroo paws are not in flower. Remove old or damaged leaves periodically to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy new growth.

10. Pigface – Best Succulent Groundcover for Kangaroo Paws

Pigface is a useful groundcover companion because its fleshy foliage and colourful daisy-like flowers create a contrasting layer beneath kangaroo paws. Many species tolerate coastal exposure, sandy soil, and dry conditions once established. Its spreading growth can also cover bare soil in suitable garden locations.

Plant pigface in full sun and freely draining soil, allowing enough space for its spreading stems. It is particularly useful on slopes, raised beds, and coastal garden borders where water drains quickly. Avoid allowing it to cover the crowns of kangaroo paws or grow so densely that it restricts airflow.

Pigface flowers provide additional colour, while its low growth habit creates a visual transition between the ground and taller flowering plants. It can be an effective option for water-wise gardens with sandy or gravelly soil. However, its spreading habit requires management where a neat, clearly defined planting layout is preferred.

11. Creeping Myoporum – Best Low-Growing Native Groundcover

Creeping myoporum is an excellent companion for kangaroo paws because it forms a low carpet of foliage that contrasts with their upright growth. Its small leaves and delicate flowers provide a subtle ground-level planting layer. It is particularly useful in sunny, water-wise landscapes where a spreading groundcover is required.

Plant creeping myoporum in well-drained soil with sufficient sunlight and space for its stems to spread. Water during establishment, then adjust irrigation to suit local rainfall and the needs of neighbouring plants. Keep the groundcover away from kangaroo paw crowns and maintain enough open space for airflow.

The plant can help soften the appearance of gravel beds, slopes, and the edges of native garden borders. Its low profile allows kangaroo paw flowers to remain the main visual feature. Check the selected species and cultivar because growth rate, spread, and suitability can differ.

12. Scaevola – Best Fan Flower Groundcover

Scaevola, commonly called fan flower, complements kangaroo paws through its distinctive fan-shaped flowers and spreading growth habit. Depending on the species and cultivar, flowers may be blue, purple, pink, or white. Its low-growing form creates a colourful foreground beneath taller kangaroo paw flower stems.

Grow scaevola in a sunny position with well-drained soil and enough space for its spreading habit. Water during establishment and maintain moisture during prolonged dry weather, particularly in containers and raised beds. Avoid overwatering plants growing in heavy soils because root problems can develop under persistently wet conditions.

Scaevola is useful in borders, hanging baskets, containers, and native-inspired garden beds. Its flowers add a different shape from kangaroo paw blooms, making the planting combination more visually varied. Choose a variety with water requirements compatible with the kangaroo paw cultivar and local climate.

13. Chrysocephalum – Best Yellow Flowering Native Companion

Chrysocephalum is a useful companion for kangaroo paws because its small yellow or orange flower clusters provide a warm colour contrast. Its foliage and low-to-medium growth habit can soften the base of taller plants. The combination is particularly effective in sunny native gardens and water-wise planting beds.

Plant chrysocephalum in a sunny position with free-draining soil. Allow enough space for the selected variety to spread, and water regularly while it establishes. Once established, many forms tolerate dry periods, although prolonged drought can reduce flowering and foliage quality.

The golden flowers create an attractive contrast with red, orange, pink, and yellow kangaroo paw cultivars. Its smaller scale also makes it suitable for the front of a mixed native border. Trim tired growth when necessary to maintain a compact shape and encourage fresh foliage.

14. Brachyscome – Best Australian Native Daisy Companion

Brachyscome, commonly known as native daisy, adds delicate flowers and a softer growth habit to kangaroo paw plantings. Its daisy-like blooms are available in several colours, including purple, pink, and white. The smaller flowers contrast with the distinctive shape and height of kangaroo paw blooms.

Grow brachyscome in a sunny to lightly shaded position with well-drained soil. Maintain consistent moisture during establishment and flowering, especially in containers or hot weather. Avoid placing it where larger shrubs will create dense shade or where spreading kangaroo paw foliage will overwhelm its smaller growth.

Brachyscome works well along the front of garden borders, around pathways, and in mixed native plantings. Its flowering habit can provide additional colour between larger kangaroo paw flower stems. Select a variety with compatible water requirements because some forms perform better with more regular moisture than drought-adapted kangaroo paw cultivars.

15. Banksia – Best Structural Australian Native Companion

Banksias complement kangaroo paws through their distinctive flower spikes, evergreen foliage, and strong architectural appearance. Dwarf and compact cultivars are particularly useful because they can provide structure without dominating smaller kangaroo paw varieties. Their unusual flowers also attract nectar-feeding birds and other wildlife.

Select a banksia species or cultivar suited to the garden’s soil, climate, and available space. Many banksias require excellent drainage and perform poorly in heavy, waterlogged soils. Avoid excessive phosphorus fertilisers and allow enough room for the plant to reach its mature size.

Dwarf banksias can create an attractive middle or background layer in native garden beds. Their flower forms contrast with the paw-shaped blooms, creating a varied display through different flowering periods. Because banksia species vary considerably, check the mature dimensions and growing requirements before planting them beside kangaroo paws.

16. Correa – Best Native Shrub for Seasonal Flowers

Correa is a useful companion for kangaroo paws because its bell-shaped flowers create a different flowering form and can extend seasonal garden interest. Many species have attractive evergreen foliage and are suitable for Australian native gardens. Their shrubs can also provide a softer background around upright kangaroo paw stems.

Grow correa in well-drained soil and select a position according to the light requirements of the chosen species. Many varieties tolerate partial shade, while others perform well in sunnier positions when moisture and drainage are appropriate. Water during establishment and avoid prolonged waterlogging around the roots.

Correa works particularly well in mixed native borders where its bell-shaped flowers contrast with kangaroo paw blooms. It can also provide shelter and structure for smaller plants when positioned carefully. Select compact varieties where space is limited, and avoid allowing dense shrub growth to shade sun-loving kangaroo paws.

17. Lavender – Best Fragrant Companion Plant

Lavender complements kangaroo paws through its fragrant foliage, purple flower spikes, and rounded growth habit. Its silvery-green leaves provide a contrasting texture, while the flowers can create a coordinated colour scheme with purple, pink, and red kangaroo paw varieties. It is particularly suitable for sunny gardens with freely draining soil.

Plant lavender in full sun and avoid heavy soils that remain wet after rain or irrigation. Water during establishment, then allow the soil to dry appropriately between watering sessions. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape, but avoid cutting deeply into old woody stems.

Lavender is useful along pathways, garden borders, and Mediterranean-style planting beds. Its fragrance and flowering spikes provide additional sensory interest around kangaroo paws. However, lavender can suffer when planted in humid, poorly ventilated conditions, so select varieties adapted to the local climate.

18. Rosemary – Best Evergreen Culinary Companion

Rosemary is a practical companion for kangaroo paws because it provides evergreen foliage, aromatic leaves, and small flowers while sharing a preference for sunny, well-drained growing conditions. Its upright or spreading varieties can create a useful structural layer around flowering kangaroo paws. The plant also provides culinary leaves for household use.

Choose an upright or prostrate rosemary variety according to the garden layout and available space. Plant it in full sun with excellent drainage, and avoid frequent heavy watering once the shrub is established. Light pruning can maintain its shape and encourage branching without cutting excessively into old woody growth.

Rosemary is suitable for gravel gardens, Mediterranean-inspired landscapes, and mixed ornamental borders. Its evergreen foliage provides structure after kangaroo paw flowers have faded. However, large rosemary shrubs can compete for space, so select compact cultivars and maintain sufficient distance between plants.

19. Salvia – Best Colourful Flowering Companion

Salvia provides colourful flower spikes that complement the distinctive blooms of kangaroo paws. Depending on the species and cultivar, flowers can be blue, purple, red, pink, or white. Many ornamental salvias also attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.

Choose drought-tolerant salvia varieties that suit the sunny, well-drained conditions preferred by many kangaroo paws. Water during establishment and adjust irrigation according to the particular salvia species. Remove spent flower stems where appropriate to encourage further flowering and maintain a tidy appearance.

Salvia works well in mixed borders where its flower spikes create additional vertical interest. Purple and blue varieties can contrast with red and yellow kangaroo paws, while red salvias can create a coordinated warm-colour display. Avoid pairing moisture-demanding salvias with kangaroo paw cultivars that require relatively dry conditions unless separate irrigation can be provided.

20. Alyogyne – Best Australian Native Flowering Shrub

Alyogyne, sometimes called native hibiscus, provides large colourful flowers that create a striking contrast with kangaroo paw blooms. Its shrub-like growth can form an attractive background, particularly when compact varieties are selected. The combination works well in sunny Australian gardens with suitable drainage and enough space for mature growth.

Plant alyogyne in a sunny position with well-drained soil and room for its branching structure. Water during establishment and maintain appropriate moisture during prolonged dry weather. Prune lightly to manage the shrub’s shape and encourage healthy branching, taking care not to remove excessive flowering growth.

The large flowers provide a different scale and form from the upright kangaroo paw blooms. Alyogyne can be used behind smaller kangaroo paw varieties or as a feature shrub in a mixed native garden. Check the selected species because frost tolerance, mature size, and water requirements differ.

21. Hardenbergia – Best Native Flowering Climber

Hardenbergia is a useful companion for kangaroo paws because its climbing or scrambling habit adds a different vertical dimension to the garden. Its purple, pink, or white flowers can create a colourful display on fences and trellises behind lower kangaroo paw plantings. This arrangement helps use vertical space without requiring additional ground area.

Plant hardenbergia near a suitable support structure and provide enough room for its stems to develop. It performs well in sunny to partly shaded positions, depending on the species and local climate. Train young stems onto a trellis or fence and prune after flowering where needed to control its spread.

Hardenbergia works particularly well behind kangaroo paws in native garden borders and boundary plantings. Its climbing growth provides height while the kangaroo paws create a lower flowering layer. Keep the climber away from the crowns of smaller plants because unmanaged stems can cover neighbouring foliage.

22. Acacia Cognata – Best Weeping Foliage Companion

Acacia cognata is an attractive companion for kangaroo paws because its fine, weeping foliage creates a soft background for their upright flower stems. Compact cultivars can provide a rounded or cascading form, while larger specimens can become useful feature plants. Its foliage is especially effective in contemporary Australian landscape designs.

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Select a compact cultivar suited to the available planting area and local climate. Plant it in a sunny to partly shaded position with well-drained soil, and provide regular moisture while it establishes. Avoid placing it so close to kangaroo paws that its mature canopy creates excessive shade.

Acacia cognata can add movement and year-round foliage interest to a mixed native garden. Its fine leaves contrast with the broader leaves of many kangaroo paw cultivars, while its form can soften hard landscape features. Check cultivar size carefully because mature dimensions differ substantially.

23. Saltbush – Best Silver Foliage Companion

Saltbush is a useful companion for kangaroo paws because its silvery foliage creates a distinctive contrast with green leaves and bright flowers. Many species are adapted to dry Australian environments and can suit water-wise landscapes. Their shrub forms also provide structure in exposed garden positions.

Select a saltbush species suited to the local climate, soil salinity, and available space. Many forms perform best in sunny positions with well-drained soil, although individual species vary in their tolerance of moisture and frost. Allow sufficient distance between shrubs and kangaroo paws to reduce competition and maintain airflow.

Saltbush works particularly well in dryland gardens, coastal-inspired landscapes, and native planting schemes. Its pale foliage can make red, orange, and yellow kangaroo paw flowers stand out more clearly. Choose a manageable species because some saltbush plants can become substantial shrubs.

24. Aloe – Best Succulent Architectural Companion

Aloe plants complement kangaroo paws through their architectural leaf rosettes and colourful flower spikes. Their fleshy leaves create a strong textural contrast with the upright, grass-like foliage of kangaroo paws. Many ornamental aloes are suitable for sunny gardens with excellent drainage.

Choose an aloe species or cultivar that suits the available space and local climate. Plant it in a sunny position with well-drained soil and avoid frequent irrigation once established, particularly during cooler or wetter periods. Allow sufficient distance between the rosette and neighbouring kangaroo paws because some aloe species become quite broad.

Aloe works well in gravel gardens, succulent borders, and contemporary landscape designs. Its flower spikes can introduce additional colour at different times of the year, depending on the species. Avoid planting thorny or very large aloes beside narrow pathways where their leaves could become a hazard.

25. Agave – Best Architectural Plant for Modern Gardens

Agave creates a bold architectural contrast with kangaroo paws through its symmetrical rosettes and strong leaf shapes. Its structural form can anchor a gravel garden or contemporary native-inspired landscape. Compact agave species are particularly useful where a strong focal point is required without relying on another flowering shrub.

Plant agave in full sun with excellent drainage, preferably in a raised bed or gravelly soil where water does not collect around the roots. Choose a species with a mature size appropriate for the garden and leave adequate clearance around the leaf tips. Water during establishment, then reduce irrigation according to the species and climate.

The combination can work well in dry gardens where both plants receive suitable sunlight and drainage. Agave provides strong evergreen structure while kangaroo paws contribute seasonal flower colour. However, many agaves have sharp leaf tips, so they should be positioned away from paths, seating areas, and children’s play spaces.

26. Dwarf Bottlebrush – Best Compact Native Flowering Companion

Dwarf bottlebrush varieties are useful companions for kangaroo paws because they provide colourful flowers without necessarily requiring the space of larger bottlebrush trees. Their rounded growth habit creates a contrasting middle layer, while the brush-like blooms introduce another distinctive flower shape. Compact cultivars are particularly suitable for smaller native garden borders.

Choose a cultivar with a mature height and width appropriate for the garden bed. Plant in a sunny position with good drainage and water consistently during establishment. Prune lightly after flowering if necessary to maintain a compact shape and prevent the shrub from crowding nearby kangaroo paws.

Dwarf bottlebrushes work well in mixed native borders, foundation plantings, and low-maintenance garden designs. Their flowers can attract birds and other nectar-feeding wildlife, while their foliage provides structure throughout the year. Avoid planting them too close to kangaroo paw crowns because dense growth can reduce airflow.

27. Native Hibiscus – Best Large-Flowering Companion

Native hibiscus, including suitable Australian hibiscus species, can complement kangaroo paws through large flowers and attractive shrub foliage. Their blooms provide a different scale and shape from kangaroo paw flowers, creating a layered display. The plants can be useful as background shrubs when the garden has sufficient room.

Choose a species adapted to the local climate and available sunlight. Provide well-drained soil and enough space for the shrub to reach its mature size, while watering during establishment and prolonged dry periods. Avoid placing large shrubs where they will shade sun-loving kangaroo paws for much of the day.

Native hibiscus can provide a colourful backdrop for smaller kangaroo paw varieties. Its larger flowers create contrast and help establish a layered landscape design. Because species differ in frost tolerance and water requirements, confirm suitability before planting them together.

28. Eucalyptus Mallee – Best Small Australian Native Tree

Compact eucalyptus mallee forms can provide a useful background for kangaroo paws in larger gardens. Their distinctive bark, branching structure, and foliage create an authentic Australian landscape appearance. Smaller species and cultivars are preferable where the intention is to add height without overwhelming the flower bed.

Choose a compact species suited to the available space, soil, and local climate. Plant it where the mature canopy will not create excessive shade over kangaroo paws, and allow enough room for the root system and branches. Establishment watering is important, but long-term irrigation should reflect the species and local rainfall.

A small mallee can provide vertical structure behind lower shrubs and flowering perennials. Its foliage creates a natural backdrop for colourful kangaroo paw blooms, especially in larger native gardens. Avoid selecting a large eucalyptus for a small garden because mature size and root competition can become difficult to manage.

29. Everlasting Daisy – Best Long-Lasting Flowering Companion

Everlasting daisies provide colourful flowers that complement the unusual blooms of kangaroo paws. Their papery flower heads can add seasonal interest in shades of yellow, white, pink, and other colours, depending on the species. They are especially useful in sunny Australian-style gardens and naturalistic planting designs.

Grow everlasting daisies in a sunny position with well-drained soil and adequate space for airflow. Water during establishment and avoid excessive irrigation in soils that remain wet for long periods. Some species are annuals or short-lived perennials, so succession sowing may be useful for maintaining flowering displays.

Everlasting daisies work well at the front of garden borders and between larger kangaroo paw clumps. Their flower forms create a softer, more delicate contrast with the upright paw-shaped blooms. Select species and varieties suited to local rainfall and temperature because not all everlasting daisies have identical growing requirements.

30. Native Violet – Best Low-Growing Companion for Partly Shaded Edges

Native violet can complement kangaroo paws in garden areas where the planting layout includes partly shaded edges or nearby sheltered spaces. Its low-growing habit and small flowers create a soft ground-level layer that contrasts with taller kangaroo paw stems. It is particularly useful where a garden bed transitions from a sunny planting area to a more sheltered position.

Plant native violet in a position that receives suitable light for the selected species, often partial shade or filtered sunlight. It generally prefers more consistent moisture than drought-adapted kangaroo paws, so avoid placing it directly in a dry planting zone unless irrigation can be managed separately. Use it around the edges of the bed rather than allowing it to cover kangaroo paw crowns.

Native violet is useful for softening pathway edges, shaded borders, and sheltered garden corners. Its low foliage creates a gentle transition between hard surfaces and taller ornamental plants. Because its moisture requirements can differ from those of kangaroo paws, it is best used in a separate but visually connected planting area.

7 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Companion Plants for Kangaroo Paws

1. Match Sunlight Requirements

Kangaroo paws generally perform best in full sun, where they can develop strong foliage and flowering stems. Choose companions that also tolerate sunny conditions if they will share the same planting bed. Plants that require dense shade may be better positioned elsewhere in the garden.

2. Prioritise Well-Drained Soil

Good drainage is essential for many kangaroo paw varieties because persistently wet soil can contribute to crown and root problems. Select companions with similar drainage preferences, particularly native shrubs, grasses, and succulents. If the soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds, mounding, or appropriate soil improvement before planting.

3. Consider Water Requirements

Not every attractive flowering plant has the same irrigation requirements as kangaroo paws. Drought-tolerant shrubs, grasses, and groundcovers are often easier to combine with them than plants requiring constant moisture. Where water needs differ, separate planting zones and irrigation lines can help prevent overwatering or drought stress.

4. Select Complementary Flower Colours

Kangaroo paws are available in red, orange, yellow, pink, and other colours, depending on the species and cultivar. Purple salvia, yellow chrysocephalum, blue scaevola, and red bottlebrush can create contrasting or coordinated colour combinations. Consider the flowering periods as well as the colours so that the garden remains attractive across different seasons.

5. Plan Mature Plant Height and Spread

Choose companions according to their mature dimensions rather than their size at purchase. Taller shrubs and small trees can provide background structure, while grasses and groundcovers fill the foreground. Maintain adequate spacing to prevent excessive shading, root competition, and restricted airflow around kangaroo paw crowns.

6. Use Different Foliage Textures

A visually interesting garden combines different leaf shapes, sizes, and colours. Lomandra, dianella, and ornamental grasses provide strap-like foliage, while westringia and saltbush offer finer or silvery leaves. Succulents and shrubs introduce additional forms that help distinguish each planting layer.

7. Consider Local Climate and Maintenance

Kangaroo paw varieties and companion plants differ in their tolerance of frost, humidity, coastal exposure, and prolonged rainfall. Choose species suited to local conditions rather than assuming every Australian native plant will grow successfully in every region. Also consider pruning, deadheading, replacement, and irrigation needs before deciding on the final combination.

What Plants Complement Kangaroo Paws Well Frequently Asked Questions

1. What plants grow best with kangaroo paws?

Grevillea, westringia, lomandra, dianella, eremophila, and suitable native grasses are useful companions for kangaroo paws. They can provide contrasting foliage, flowering interest, and garden structure while sharing similar sunny and well-drained growing conditions. Always select varieties suited to the local climate and soil.

2. Can you plant lavender with kangaroo paws?

Yes, lavender can be a suitable companion because both plants generally prefer sunny positions and well-drained soil. Its purple flower spikes and aromatic foliage contrast with the distinctive kangaroo paw blooms. Avoid planting either species in heavy soil that remains wet for extended periods.

3. Are ornamental grasses good companions for kangaroo paws?

Yes. Lomandra, kangaroo grass, and suitable tussock grasses can complement kangaroo paws through their foliage texture and clumping growth habits. They also help create layered native garden designs, although spacing is important to prevent excessive competition.

4. What groundcovers grow well around kangaroo paws?

Pigface, creeping myoporum, and suitable scaevola varieties can be useful groundcovers in compatible garden conditions. Their low growth creates a foreground layer beneath taller kangaroo paw flowers. Keep spreading plants away from the crowns to maintain airflow and prevent overcrowding.

5. Can kangaroo paws grow with succulents?

Yes. Suitable aloes and compact agaves can complement kangaroo paws in sunny gardens with excellent drainage. Their architectural foliage contrasts with the upright flower stems. Select non-invasive, appropriately sized species and avoid placing sharp-leaved plants beside narrow pathways.

6. Do kangaroo paws need full sun?

Many kangaroo paw varieties flower best in full sun, although light requirements can vary by species and growing conditions. Adequate sunlight generally supports stronger flowering and compact growth. In very hot climates, some varieties may benefit from protection from extreme afternoon heat, depending on local conditions.

7. What plants should you avoid planting beside kangaroo paws?

Plants that require consistently wet soil, create dense shade, or spread aggressively can be unsuitable companions. Moisture-demanding plants may require irrigation that increases the risk of problems around kangaroo paw crowns. Choose plants with compatible growing requirements and maintain enough space for healthy airflow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grevillea, westringia, and lomandra are among the best overall companions for kangaroo paws because they provide complementary foliage, attractive structure, and suitable options for sunny Australian gardens. Little John bottlebrush is another excellent choice when colourful flowering shrubs are needed to create contrast.

Dianella, kangaroo grass, poa, and blue fescue are useful for adding foliage texture and a layered appearance. For low-growing colour, pigface, creeping myoporum, scaevola, chrysocephalum, and brachyscome can create attractive foreground plantings when their spreading habits and moisture needs are managed.

Lavender, rosemary, salvia, banksia, correa, and eremophila provide additional flowering interest and garden structure. Succulents such as aloe and agave can also work well in appropriately drained beds, while larger shrubs and compact eucalyptus forms can provide a background layer in spacious gardens.

Choose companion plants according to sunlight, drainage, mature size, and water requirements rather than appearance alone. A carefully planned combination can help kangaroo paws remain the focal point while creating a colourful, balanced, and relatively low-maintenance garden.