Leonotis leonurus
(Lion's Tail, Wild Dagga)
/synonym: Phlomis leonurus
Origin: Native to South Africa
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint)
Light: Full sun
Height: 4-6'
Spacing: 3'
Blooms: Bright orange with orange hairs, tubular, looks like lion's tail, Fall
Foliage: Green, opposite,
Fruit: Brown nutlet with seeds
Soil: Well-drained, poor, neutral, drought tolerant
Water: Low
Uses: Xeriscaping, ornamental, mass planting, container, dried flower, traditional medicine, herb
Comments: Leonotis leonurus or Lion's Ear or Lion's Tail or Wild Dagga or Phlomis leonurus is a perennial shrub with a branching woody base. It is a native of South Africa. In Fall, Leonotis leonurus produces ornamental bright orange, lion's tail-like blossoms with orange hairs, followed later by brown nutlet with seeds inside. Butterflies hummingbirds and bees are magnetized by its nectar-rich blossoms of Lion's Tail. Florists are delighted with the long lasting dried flowers as they retain their bright orange colors for at least 2 years. Lion's Tail is easily propagated from seeds. It thrives best in neutral pH soil, in a sunny location. Wild Dagga tolerates drought conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping. Mass plant Phlomis leonurus for an eye-catching display in the late Summer landscape. In its native habitat, Leonotis leonurus can be found growing on river banks, rocky hilly areas and tall grasslands. The leaves contain inflammatory properties. The native tribesmen of South Africa used the brewed leaves to make traditional herbal minty tea to treat myriad ailments including hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, menstrual problems and as an antidote for snakebite. It is also used as a topical application for skin problems and haemorrhoids. Due to its euphoric effects, the dried leaves are also used a substitute for cannabis and has a mild sedative effect.
USDA Zones: 7-11
