The original trial plantation was at Gatton, in south-east Queensland. The effects of the weather conditions can be seen with the growers major crop, waxflower. However, from this month there will be another 5 plantation trials established in northern Queensland which will reduce the risk in future and also help to establish the crop more quickly in export markets. The original trial will also continue. Research into propagation has included studies of seed germination and establishment, propagation by division of the rhizome, and attempts at tissue culture.
Seed germination is easy but it is very hard to establish the young plants.
Fortunately it looks as though we have solved the establishment problem using a hydroponic system. Growth in hydroponics is so good that it may be possible to use this as a method for greenhouse production in southern Australia. Unlike Kangaroo Paws, the flower colour doesn't change under glass so this looks even more promising. Some work has also been done on the physiology of the species as it relates to winter dormancy. The initial results from carbon dioxide assimilation studies look promising as in controlled environment conditions some clones do not require a dormant period, and can even be made to flower completely out of season.