The common name catspaw was initially applied to this species, then for several other species of Anigozanthos, this is assumed to have been coined to contrast these with larger flowers and scapes of 'kangaroo paws'.[2][5] The widely occurring A. humilis subsp. humilis is referred to as the common catspaw.[6]
Description
The species has a basal rosette of long strap-like leaves, emerging at the soil's surface from a rhizome beneath. A raceme of flowers appear at the terminus of long stalks, giving the plant a height up to one metre. The tuberous form of the flower bud is yellow, becoming orange then red at the opening.[4] It is typically 0.4-1 meter tall and 0.3-0.6 meters across.[5]
A sketch of the vegetation of the Swan River Colony, 1839, John Lindley
The plant is widely cultivated, and is able to tolerate hot and humid climates, but requires winter protection in temperate regions. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[9] It does best in sunny locations with well-drained soil.[4]
^Hopper, Stephen; Wells, B. & B. (photography); Pieroni, M. (illustration) (1993). Kangaroo paws and catspaws; a natural history and field guide. Perth: CALM.
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