Cats Paw (Anigozanthos humilis) 30 Seeds
 
This charming and resilient perennial is celebrated for its unique, paw-shaped flowers that bloom profusely, typically from late winter through to spring and early summer. The fuzzy, tubular flowers are often a vibrant yellow, orange, or reddish-brown, perched atop slender, leafless stems, creating a distinctive and eye-catching display. These diminutive yet striking blooms are a fantastic draw for honey-eating birds, adding lively activity to garden beds and containers. The Cats Paw forms a clumping habit with grass-like, strappy leaves at its base, making it an excellent choice for rockeries, borders, or mass plantings where a splash of vibrant colour is desired.
 
 
To prepare these seeds for germination, a smoke treatment can be highly beneficial, as it helps to break dormancy and improve germination rates, mimicking the effects of natural bushfire. After any pre-treatment, sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed-raising mix. A mix with a good proportion of sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage. Lightly press the seeds into the surface, but do not cover them deeply, as they require light to germinate.
Keep the seed trays or pots consistently moist, but be careful not to overwater, which can lead to damping-off. A warm and brightly lit position is conducive to germination, but protect from direct, harsh sun during the hottest part of the day, especially for young seedlings. Germination can be irregular, taking anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so patience is key.
 
 
Once the seedlings are large enough to handle without damage and have developed a few true leaves, carefully prick them out and transplant them into individual pots or their final garden position. Cats Paw thrives in full sun and requires exceptionally well-drained soil. It is particularly sensitive to heavy, waterlogged soils and prefers sandy or gravelly loams. Water regularly during dry periods, especially when plants are young and establishing. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant. Fertilize sparingly with a very low-phosphorus native plant fertilizer, or avoid fertilizing altogether if your soil is of reasonable quality, as these plants are sensitive to high phosphorus levels. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal issues.