Do I need to prune it to get flowers?

Pruning old flower stalks after they fade can encourage the plant to put energy into new growth. It does not directly force new blooms, but it keeps the plant healthy.

Can I force it to bloom?

There is no safe way to force a bloom. Providing consistent full sun is the only way to encourage natural flowering.

Why is my Kangaroo paw not flowering? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Measure the amount of direct sunlight the plant receives daily.
Check the fertilizer label for phosphorus content.
Ensure the plant is mature enough to bloom.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks healthy but produces only leaves. It is likely sitting in a spot that is too shady for its needs.
What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives full, direct sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Avoid placing it in partial shade or indoors away from windows.
Improper fertilizer
Possible
How to tell: The plant is growing very fast but never sets buds. High nitrogen fertilizers often encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
What to do: Switch to a low phosphorus fertilizer specifically formulated for native plants. Apply it sparingly during the active growing season.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your kangaroo paw

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for young plants to skip a season while they establish their root systems. Worry if a mature plant has had perfect sun for a year and still refuses to bloom.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in the sunniest spot you have and avoid overfeeding with nitrogen heavy products.

Kangaroo paw: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your kangaroo paw and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do I need to prune it to get flowers?: Pruning old flower stalks after they fade can encourage the plant to put energy into new growth. It does not directly force new blooms, but it keeps the plant healthy.
Can I force it to bloom?: There is no safe way to force a bloom. Providing consistent full sun is the only way to encourage natural flowering.

Why is my Kangaroo paw not flowering?