Heath and mallee communities in eastern Western Australia. Black kangaroo paw. The flowers have a general resemblance to the paws of kangaroos. From Latin, fuligo , soot, referring to the black colouring on the flowers. They are perennial herbs consisting of strap-like leaves arising from underground rhizomes.
Flowers occur in clusters on stalks which emerge from the bases of the leaves.
A number of species die back to the rhizome in summer, regenerating in autumn. All species are restricted in distribution to the southern areas of Western Australia. Macropidia fuliginosa is a spectacular species. Black hairs also occur along the stems. The black kangaroo paw is a very desirable plant for cultivation but cannot be regarded as hardy in humid climates.