PlantFiles: Kangaroo Paw
Anigozanthos manglesii 'Kanga Red'

Botanica Encyclopedia
Anigozanthos - Kangaroo Paw
Native to southwestern Australia, these evergreen perennials are noted for their unique bird-attracting tubular flowers, the outsides coated with dense shaggy hairs and opening at the apex into 6 'claws', the whole resembling an animal's paw. Foliage is somewhat grass-like, and the various species can range in height from 1-6'. Flowers come in many colors inluding green, gold, deep red and orange-red; some species and hybrids are bi-colored. In recent years many hybrids have been produced, meeting the demands of the cut-flower industry and the florists' trade in potted flowers--an example is Anigozanthos 'Red Cross'--though most will grow outdoors equally well.
Cultivation:
They prefer warm, very well-drained sandy or gravelly soil and a hot, sunny, open position. Water well during dry seasons. Most will tolerate very light frosts and do well in coastal regions. Most tolerate drought, although flowering will be prolonged with summer water. Propagate by division in spring or from fresh seed. Plants are often affected by ink disease, a fungus which blackens the foliage. Watch for snails which can shred younger leaves overnight.
Zones 9-11

So far, it seems to be doing well here in 8b, although it may not make the winter. Plants usually last only about 3 years under ideal conditions. They need a well-drained area, preferably sandy loam, for best results.