Leonotis leonurus (Lions Ears)

Leonotis leonurus (Lions Ears) orange tubular flower clusters on a green leafy plant stem

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Leonotis leonurus

Botanical name: Leonotis leonurus

Common names: Lions Ears, Lions Tail, Wild Dagga

Family: Lamiaceae

Origin: South Africa

USDA Zone: 9-11

Plant form: Large bush

Mature height: 5-10 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Moderate

Flower color: Red, crimson, vinous; yellow, orange

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion's Tail, is a semi-evergreen shrub in the Lamiaceae family native to southern Africa. It typically grows 4 to 6 ft tall, forming an upright, branching plant with narrow, slightly aromatic leaves. The flowers are arranged in distinctive whorled tiers along the stems, producing tubular blooms in bright orange, with occasional yellow forms. Flowering occurs from late summer into fall and may extend longer in warm climates, attracting pollinators such as bees and birds.

This species prefers full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating dry conditions once established. Growth rate is moderate to fast under warm conditions. Cold tolerance is moderate, with damage likely below about 25 to 28F; best suited to USDA Zones 8 to 11. Leonotis leonurus is suitable for garden beds, borders, and large containers in sunny locations.See Article about Leonotis leonurus.