Lion's Tail
Leonotis leonurus
About this plant
Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion's Tail, is a striking shrub known for its bright orange, tubular flowers arranged in whorls along tall stems. It is native to South Africa and is popular in gardens for its ornamental flowers and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant has a distinctive, somewhat fuzzy appearance and can grow into a bushy shrub. It is often used in landscaping for its vibrant color and drought tolerance.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Leonotis
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa
- Distribution
- Native to South Africa; cultivated in warm climates worldwide including parts of the USA, Australia, and Mediterranean regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. It tolerates drought but performs best with occasional watering during dry periods.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flower production.
Leonotis leonurus is a hardy and easy-to-grow shrub that thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil. It tolerates drought well but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. It requires minimal maintenance, with pruning recommended to encourage bushier growth and remove old flowers.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer–fall
Bright orange tubular flowers in dense whorls, fuzzy green leaves, upright bushy form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally considered non-toxic but avoid ingestion. Sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Leonotis leonurus may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen and contact with its sap. People prone to plant allergies should handle it with care and wear gloves when pruning. Symptoms can include skin irritation or mild respiratory discomfort. To reduce exposure, avoid touching the plant's sap and keep it in a well-ventilated area.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Inadequate sunlight may cause leggy growth and fewer flowers. Occasionally, it may attract aphids or spider mites.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and ability to attract pollinators. Sometimes used in traditional medicine in native regions.
Notes
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. It can be grown indoors in a bright spot but prefers outdoor conditions. Protect from frost as it is not cold-hardy.